What to do when someone dies in Rhode Island

Rhode Island has its own estate tax for estates over $1.73 million, handled by Probate Court in the city or town where the deceased lived. The surviving spouse has elective share rights to a portion of the estate.

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.