California · Probate administration

California Probate Creditor Deadlines and Small-Estate Rules

Later of: 4 months after letters first issued to a general PR, OR 60 days after notice of administration is mailed/personally delivered to the creditor

3 rules checked against governing sourcesSources checked through Jun 14, 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.

Procedure threshold

Small-estate procedure

California's standard affidavit for collection/transfer of personal property is available when the gross value of California property subject to the affidavit does not exceed $208,850 for deaths on or after April 1, 2025. Judicial Council form DE-300 also lists a separate $750,000 primary-residence succession petition threshold for deaths on or after April 1, 2025.

Judicial Council of California form DE-300, rev. April 28, 2025; Cal. Prob. Code §§ 890, 13100-13101, 13151-13154.

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

Publication and service

Notice to creditors

California personal representatives must give notice of administration to known or reasonably ascertainable creditors. The notice is due by the later of four months after letters are first issued or 30 days after the personal representative first has knowledge of the creditor. The statutory notice form tells creditors to file by the later of four months after letters or 60 days after notice was mailed or personally delivered.

Cal. Prob. Code §§ 9050-9052.

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.