Search probate guides, practical articles, and estate settlement resources.1148 in-depth guides • 96 blog posts
If you die without a will, state intestacy rules decide who inherits. In 30 states and DC, a child from another relationship shrinks your spouse's share.
Alabama has no state estate or inheritance tax, so only the federal estate tax can apply. Learn the 2026 exclusion, portability, and what counts in the estate.
Alabama exempt property lets a surviving spouse or children claim up to $9,400 in household goods, vehicles, and furnishings ahead of most estate creditors.
The Alabama family allowance is support money for a surviving spouse and minor children during probate, up to $18,800 or $500 monthly under Ala. Code 43-8-112.
Alabama probate accounting explained: the two-month inventory, what a settlement accounting must show, and when beneficiaries can demand one.
Alabama probate bond requirements explained: when an executor must post a fiduciary bond, when the will waives it under Ala. Code 43-2-851, and what it costs.
How Alabama debt payment priority works: the six-class order of payment under Ala. Code 43-2-371, insolvent estate rules, and executor personal liability.
How step-up in basis works on inherited Alabama property: a single step-up under IRC Section 1014 for this separate-property state, plus capital gains tax.
Alabama surviving spouse rights: the one-third elective share, the $18,800 homestead allowance, exempt property, the family allowance, and the intestate share.
Alabama ancillary probate explained: when out-of-state estates with Alabama property need a second Probate Court proceeding, and how to avoid it.
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