Order

When life feels overwhelming

What to do when someone dies in Maine

Maine runs probate through Probate Court, with a small estate affidavit for estates under $40,000. The state has its own estate tax for estates over $6.8 million. MainePERS survivor benefits need separate attention if the deceased was a public employee.

What this guide covers

• How probate works in this state
• Estate and inheritance taxes
• Surviving spouse rights and protections
• Small estate shortcuts and affidavit thresholds
• Step-by-step checklist for your family

Order walks your family through every task — from filing the will with the court to closing the final accounts. Use it to stay organized, assign tasks to family members, and make sure nothing gets missed.