Estate Law · Rhode Island
Rhode Island estate planning rules
State-specific rules that affect how your estate is distributed, how probate works, and what planning steps matter most for Rhode Island residents.
- Rhode Island intestacy gives the spouse a life estate in real property and a portion of personal propertyRI intestacy: spouse takes life estate in real property + half of personal property with descendants. Life-estate framework retained from common law.
- Rhode Island requires two witnesses for will execution, no holographic recognitionRI will requires testator's signature and two competent witnesses signing in testator's presence. No holographic wills recognized.
- Rhode Island small estate procedures handle estates up to $15,000 with reduced administrationRI small estate procedures handle personal property up to $15,000. Threshold among lower nationally. Many estates require formal administration.
- Rhode Island Uniform Power of Attorney Act provides default-durable POAsRI POAs are durable by default under the Uniform Power of Attorney Act (2019). Hot powers require express enumeration. Healthcare directive separate.
- Rhode Island imposes state estate tax with $1.77 million threshold — third-lowest nationallyRI estate tax: ~$1.77M threshold (indexed) — third-lowest nationally after MA $2M and OR $1M. No portability between spouses. Top rate 16%.
How do these rules apply to you?
See which Rhode Island rules affect your family — free in 3 minutes.
Check your situationThis information is educational, not legal advice. For complex situations, consult a licensed Rhode Island attorney.