Estate Law · Connecticut
Connecticut estate planning rules
State-specific rules that affect how your estate is distributed, how probate works, and what planning steps matter most for Connecticut residents.
- Connecticut intestacy gives the spouse $100,000 plus three-quarters when descendants are mutualConnecticut intestacy: spouse takes $100,000 plus three-quarters with mutual descendants; one-half with prior-relationship descendants.
- Connecticut requires two witnesses for will execution, no holographic recognitionConnecticut will requires testator's signature and two competent witnesses signing in the testator's presence. No holographic wills recognized.
- Connecticut summary administration handles personal property up to $40,000Connecticut summary administration handles personal property up to $40,000 with streamlined procedure. Real property requires separate procedures.
- Connecticut's Uniform Power of Attorney Act provides default-durable POAsConnecticut POAs are durable by default under the Uniform Power of Attorney Act (2016). Hot powers require express enumeration. Healthcare POA is separate.
- Connecticut's estate tax mirrors the federal exclusion ($13.99M) with portabilityCT estate tax mirrors federal exclusion (~$13.99M in 2026) with portability. Only state estate tax with both federal threshold AND portability. Top rate 12%.
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Check your situationThis information is educational, not legal advice. For complex situations, consult a licensed Connecticut attorney.