Estate
Everything a person owned at death, along with what they owed.
What Estate means in an estate
The estate includes all assets (real estate, bank accounts, investments, personal belongings) and all debts. The 'probate estate' is the narrower slice that passes through court: it leaves out anything that transfers automatically by beneficiary designation, survivorship, or trust.
How this works in your state
The concept is national, but the forms, procedure names, thresholds, and filing practice vary by state. Open your state glossary and guides to see how estate is handled where the estate is being settled.
Related terms
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Information current as of April 4, 2026
Settled Estate is not a law firm, and this content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Probate laws and procedures in your state can change. Consult with a qualified attorney for advice specific to your situation. Full disclaimer.