Why Probate Could Get Easier in Florida
Many Florida families are aware that probate is something to avoid at all costs. You might have heard that probate in Tampa can be time-consuming, stressful, and expensive. While these are valid concerns, families should also consider the possibility of “summary administration,” a quicker, easier probate process. Thanks to recent developments, this type of probate could be much easier to access in the future. Contact a probate lawyer to learn more.
House Bill 1337 Could Make Summary Administration More Accessible
In February of 2026, the House and Senate passed House Bill 1337. Among other things, this bill makes it easier to access summary administration by raising the maximum value of qualifying estates. Under the previous law, an estate became ineligible for summary administration as soon as its non-exempt assets exceeded $75,000. With the passing of House Bill 1337, this maximum has increased to $150,000.
Sources indicate that this new law could take effect as early as July 1st, 2026. That being said, the bill still requires the signature of the Florida Governor. Although the Governor could theoretically veto the bill, this seems unlikely given its widespread support across both parties. Making probate cheaper for average Florida families is something virtually everyone can agree on.
Another notable change brought about by HB 1337 involves safety deposit boxes. The bill would adjust laws in order to make it easier for a personal representative to access the safety deposit box of a decedent. This should also make probate and inheritance easier for Florida families.
Why Is Summary Administration So Popular?
Summary administration is popular because it represents a streamlined, more affordable version of normal probate in Florida. Since probate represents a financial burden for many Florida families, summary administration is particularly important regarding estates with lower net worths.
When calculating the value of an estate for summary administration eligibility purposes, the probate court only counts “non-exempt” assets. Exempt assets may include homesteads inherited by right of survivorship, beneficiary designations, and trust assets. Because of these exemptions, an estate could have a relatively high on-paper net worth and still qualify for summary administration.
Some families strategically aim for summary administration by shifting as much of their wealth into exempt assets. For example, a family might shift more funds into their homestead or trust. They might also create beneficiary designations for their stock portfolios. As long as the decedent passes away with less than $75,000 in non-exempt assets, they may save their family from a considerable legal and financial burden. As previously noted, this number could soon increase to $150,000.
Can a Seminole Probate Lawyer Help Me?
If you’re interested in summary administration, consider contacting a probate lawyer in New Port Richey. As of this writing, it’s not 100 percent clear whether summary administration will become easier to access in Florida. However, these are definitely positive signs. Contact Knudsen Law today to learn more about your probate options.
Sources:
floridabar.org/the-florida-bar-news/house-advances-bill-to-simplify-small-estate-administration/
flhouse.gov/Sections/Bills/billsdetail.aspx?BillId=84073&SessionId=113
