Alabama · Probate administration

Alabama Probate Creditor Deadlines and Small-Estate Rules

Creditor claims must be presented within 6 months after letters are granted or 5 months from first publication of notice, whichever is later; actual-notice creditors get at least 30 days after notice.

3 rules checked against governing sourcesSources checked through Jul 3, 2026Inspect the coverage gate

Answer first, sources attached

Three administration rules to check first

Creditor timing, notice procedure, and simplified-estate eligibility are state-specific. These source-linked rules are a starting point for the administration plan.

Claims deadline

Creditor claim period

Creditor claims must be presented within 6 months after letters are granted or 5 months from first publication of notice, whichever is later; actual-notice creditors get at least 30 days after notice.

Ala. Code Sec. 43-2-350.

Verified Jul 3, 2026 · Next review by Jul 3, 2027

Publication and service

Notice to creditors

Personal representative publishes notice to creditors; small-estate summary distribution publishes notice as directed by the Small Estates Act.

Ala. Code Secs. 43-2-60, 43-2-61, 43-2-350, 43-2-692.

Verified Jul 3, 2026 · Next review by Jul 3, 2027

What changes the answer

The statewide rule is the starting point

  • Date and type of appointmentLetters, qualification, and the form of administration can change the trigger.
  • Known versus unknown creditorsPublication and direct notice may create different duties and deadlines.
  • Property included in the thresholdExempt property, real estate, and nonprobate assets may be treated differently.
  • Local court procedureForms, publication practice, hearing calendars, and closing requirements can be county-specific.

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This page reports source-linked state rules and review dates. It does not calculate a deadline, determine eligibility, select a procedure, value a claim, or apply law to an individual situation. Verify the cited authority, local procedure, and current law before relying on a rule.