Vermont
Estate law, probate process, and inheritance rules for Vermont — in plain language.
$2,500–$4,500 on typical estates
Small-estate certificate 14 V.S.A. §1902
Rate: Flat 16% above threshold
Elective share: 1/3 of augmented estate (14 V.S.A. §319)
Spouse + descendants all of marriage: spouse takes 100%. Other situations: graduated by relationship.
- ✓Must be 18+ and of sound mind
- ✓May be required to post bond unless will waives it
- ✓Must file inventory of estate assets
- ✓Must give notice to creditors per statute
- ⏱Will filed within 30 days of death (14 V.S.A. §103)
- ⏱Estate tax return: 9 months after death
- ⏱Inventory: within 90 days of appointment
- ⚠VT estate tax 'cliff' over $5M
- ⚠Out-of-state real estate triggers VT estate tax allocation issues
- ⚠Outdated beneficiary designations override the will
- ⚠Real estate in another state triggers ancillary probate
- ⚠Joint tenancy with non-spouse can create unintended consequences
- →Trust planning for estates > $4M
- →Lifetime gifting strategy if approaching threshold
- Title 14 V.S.A. (Decedents Estates and Fiduciary Relations)
- Title 32 §7402 (Estate Tax)
Statute references are for orientation only. Verify current text with your state legislature's website. Not legal advice — consult an attorney licensed in Vermont.
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