Nevada Probate: How to Settle an Estate in Nevada

A Guide for Executors and Administrators

Managing an estate in Nevada requires navigating the Nevada probate process, fulfilling legal duties, and complying with Nevada probate laws. This guide covers probate steps and simplified options in the probate court Nevada.

Executorium also maintains a County-Specific Resource Hub where you can find links, information, resources and contact information for county-specific agencies and departments relevant to probate, will and estate administration.

Access the County-specific resource hubs by using the table linked at the end of this guide.

How an Executor or Administrator is Appointed in Nevada

Probate begins with a petition filed in the county district court. If the deceased had a valid will, the named executor is appointed. If there is no will, the court appoints an administrator according to Nevada intestate succession laws.

Duties of an Executor Under Nevada Probate Laws

Executors or administrators must:

• File the petition and submit the will (if any)
• Inventory, appraise, and secure estate assets
• Notify creditors and beneficiaries
• Pay debts, claims, and taxes
• Distribute remaining assets and file final accounting

Nevada Probate Process and Timeline

The Nevada probate process includes:

1. Petition and court hearing
2. Appointment of personal representative
3. Publication of creditor notice
4. Asset inventory and appraisals
5. Settlement of debts and taxes
6. Distribution of estate and final report

Most Nevada probate cases take 6–12 months. See the County-Specific Resource Hub for court details and local forms.

Overview of Nevada Estate Laws and Probate Code

Nevada estate laws are found in the Nevada Revised Statutes (NRS) Chapters 132–156, which govern wills, trusts, intestacy, and probate administration.

Wills and Probate Court Nevada: Jurisdiction and Filing

Probate court Nevada is part of the District Court system. The court has exclusive jurisdiction over estate administration, guardianships, and trusts. Use our County-Specific Resource Hub for links to your local court and resources.

Estate Taxes in Nevada and Inheritance Tax Nevada

Nevada does not impose a state estate or inheritance tax. Federal estate tax may still apply to large estates that exceed the federal exemption limit.

Nevada Small Estate Affidavit and Summary Administration

The Nevada small estate affidavit can be used when:

• The estate value is $25,000 or less (or $100,000 if the spouse is the sole heir)
• No real property is included (unless spouse-only estate)
• At least 40 days have passed since death

Estates valued at less than $300,000 may qualify for summary administration.

Intestate Succession Nevada and Heirship

Without a valid will, Nevada intestate succession applies. Property passes first to spouses and children, then to parents, siblings, and extended relatives. See NRS Chapter 134 for the complete succession order.

Trust Administration and Nevada Trust Laws

Nevada trust laws are governed by NRS Chapter 163. Revocable living trusts help estates avoid probate and allow for private administration through a successor trustee.

Documents Needed for Nevada Probate Records

• Certified death certificate
• Original will and/or trust documents
• Petition for probate
• Inventory and appraisals
• Creditor notices
• Final accounting and court approval forms

Filing Nevada Probate Records Online and In Court

Nevada probate records are filed with the District Court. Some courts allow online submission. Access resources and forms through the County-Specific Resource Hub.

Property Distribution and Nevada Probate Attorney Help

Executors must distribute assets according to the will or Nevada intestacy laws. A Nevada probate attorney can help with legal filings, real property transfers, and contested issues.

It is often required that the executor create a Lists of Heirs and an Inventory of Assets, this can help with the asset distribution process. A video walkthrough is also a valuable tool for the executor in managing the estate property and distribution process.

Executorium maintains a free directory of estate service providers in your state including probate attorneys. Visit the free to access Estate Services Directory for probate and estate service provider listings in your area.

Resolving Disputes: Wills and Probate in Nevada

Contested estates, will disputes, or fiduciary issues are handled in probate court Nevada. Mediation or litigation may be required in disputed cases.

Summary & Linked Resources

• Nevada Revised Statutes – Chapters 132–156
• Nevada Judiciary – Probate Division
• Executorium County-Specific Resource Hub

Nevada Wills and Probate County Resource Hubs

<<Coming Soon>>

Disclaimer

The information on this page is general in nature and was accurate at the time of publishing. While we strive to keep this content up to date, we make no guarantees regarding its current accuracy or applicability to specific estate situations.
Executors should seek legal guidance from a Nevada probate attorney or estate professional for expert assistance. Visit our Estate Services Directory for free access to listings for Nevada probate and estate services.