If you’re waiting to receive an inheritance in California, you’ve probably already discovered that the probate process doesn’t move quickly. What many families assume will take a few months often stretches into a year—or even longer. For beneficiaries who are counting on those funds to cover living expenses, tuition, or medical bills, these delays can be more than frustrating.
So why does probate take so long in California? Let’s break it down and then talk about what you can do while you wait.
Common Reasons Probate Drags On
1. Court Backlogs
California courts are notoriously busy. Probate cases compete with criminal, civil, and family law matters. This often results in delays for hearings, approvals, and filings.
2. Complex Estates
If the estate includes multiple properties, businesses, or assets spread across states, the process takes longer. Appraisals, valuations, and tax issues add months to the timeline.
3. Disputes Among Heirs
Unfortunately, money can bring out conflict. If siblings or other heirs disagree about how assets should be distributed, probate can stall for months or even years while the disputes are resolved.
4. Creditors’ Claims
The estate must give creditors time to file claims. This statutory waiting period can take several months by itself, regardless of how simple the estate is.
5. Lack of a Will
When there’s no will, California’s intestacy laws decide who inherits what. Sorting this out can require additional paperwork and oversight from the court.
The Emotional Toll of Waiting
Waiting on probate is stressful for beneficiaries. You may be grieving the loss of a loved one while also trying to cover your own financial obligations. Unfortunately, the court doesn’t move faster just because your bills are piling up.
What You Can Do While Probate Is Pending
While you can’t force the court to move more quickly, you do have options.
- Stay in communication with the probate attorney. Ask for updates regularly so you know what stage the estate is in.
- Keep records of your own expenses. This will help you plan and budget while you wait.
- Explore an inheritance advance. This is often the best solution for beneficiaries who need funds now.
How an Inheritance Advance Works
Unlike a traditional loan, an inheritance advance doesn’t require monthly payments, collateral, or even a credit check. Instead, a company like Approved Inheritance Cash provides you with money upfront based on your expected share of the estate.
When probate eventually closes, we’re paid directly from your inheritance—meaning you don’t have to worry about owing anything out of pocket if things take longer than expected. It’s a simple, stress-free way to bridge the gap while the probate process runs its course.
Final Thoughts
Probate delays are an unfortunate reality in California, but you don’t have to let them derail your financial stability. Understanding why the process takes so long can give you peace of mind, and knowing that you have options—like an inheritance advance—can give you the relief you need.
At Approved Inheritance Cash, our goal is to help beneficiaries like you access your inheritance faster, without the long wait or unnecessary stress. If you’re tired of waiting for probate to finish, contact us today and see how we can help.
