Estate Law · Kentucky
Kentucky estate planning rules
State-specific rules that affect how your estate is distributed, how probate works, and what planning steps matter most for Kentucky residents.
- Kentucky intestacy gives the spouse one-half of personal property and dower rights in real propertyKY intestacy: spouse takes half of personal estate and dower in one-third real property with descendants. Larger shares without descendants.
- Kentucky recognizes attested wills and holographic willsKentucky recognizes attested wills (testator's signature plus two witnesses) and holographic wills (entirely handwritten and signed by testator).
- Kentucky dispense with administration handles personal estates up to $30,000Kentucky dispense with administration for personal estates up to $30,000 when surviving spouse is sole beneficiary. Streamlined procedure.
- Kentucky's Uniform Power of Attorney Act provides default-durable POAsKentucky POAs are durable by default under the Uniform Power of Attorney Act (2018). Hot powers require express enumeration. Healthcare directive separate.
- Kentucky inheritance tax uses class-based rates with full exemption for spouse and lineal descendantsKentucky inheritance tax: Class A (spouse, lineal descendants/ascendants, siblings) fully exempt; Class B 4-16%; Class C 6-16%. No estate tax.
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Check your situationThis information is educational, not legal advice. For complex situations, consult a licensed Kentucky attorney.