What to Do When Someone Dies in Oregon

When a loved one passes away in Oregon, there are important legal and financial steps to take. Oregon is one of the few states with its own estate tax.

Oregon Quick Facts

Small Estate Threshold

$75,000

Probate Timeline

4-12 months

Death Certificate

$25 per copy

Order From

Oregon Health Authority

State Estate Tax

Yes

Inheritance Tax

No

Unique to Oregon

Oregon has a state estate tax with a $1 million exemption (one of the lowest in the nation)

Get the death certificate in Oregon

In Oregon, the funeral home files the death certificate with the Oregon Health Authority Center for Health Statistics. Certified copies cost $25 each. Request 10-15 certified copies.

Understand Oregon probate

Oregon probate typically takes 4-12 months. Small estates under $75,000 (personal property) may qualify for simplified procedures. Oregon has an estate tax with a $1 million exemption - one of the lowest in the nation.

Handle financial accounts

Gather information about bank accounts, investment accounts, and retirement funds. Contact each financial institution with a certified death certificate. Accounts with named beneficiaries pass outside probate.

Frequently asked questions about Oregon estates

Neighboring state guides

Estate laws vary by state. If the deceased owned property in multiple states, you may need to file in each state.

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