Journey Map
View the entire process from death to closure on a visual map.
Check Estate Value
Possible paths
Simplified Settlement (Small Estate)
Applies to estates under 3G (approx. NOK 370,000). No probate certificate — just a letter of authority from the court.
Standard Probate Process
Follow the standard timeline for Private or Public settlement.
Important
Publish creditor notice in Norsk Lysingsblad BEFORE you sign the declaration of private settlement. If you sign private settlement without doing this, you have already assumed personal responsibility for all debt — including debt you did not know about. The notice and settlement signing can overlap in time, but the notice must come first.
Important
DEADLINE: 60 days from date of death. If the deadline passes without the court having received a declaration, the court may impose public settlement. (Source: Inheritance Act § 78)
Important
The deceased's children from previous relationships must give written consent before the surviving spouse can hold the estate undivided. They can claim their share of the inheritance now — regardless of whether a will exists. (Source: Inheritance Act §§ 14 and 32)
Choose Settlement Type
Possible paths
Private Settlement
The heirs assume full personal responsibility for all debt — including unknown debt. Most common solution.
Public Settlement
The court assumes responsibility. The estate bears the debt, not the heirs personally. Used in cases of doubt or dispute.
Undivided Estate
Surviving spouse/cohabitant takes over without settlement. The children's inheritance is deferred.
Check Estate Value
Possible paths
Simplified Settlement (Small Estate)
Applies to estates under 3G (approx. NOK 370,000). No probate certificate — just a letter of authority from the court.
Standard Probate Process
Follow the standard timeline for Private or Public settlement.
Important
Publish creditor notice in Norsk Lysingsblad BEFORE you sign the declaration of private settlement. If you sign private settlement without doing this, you have already assumed personal responsibility for all debt — including debt you did not know about. The notice and settlement signing can overlap in time, but the notice must come first.
Important
DEADLINE: 60 days from date of death. If the deadline passes without the court having received a declaration, the court may impose public settlement. (Source: Inheritance Act § 78)
Important
The deceased's children from previous relationships must give written consent before the surviving spouse can hold the estate undivided. They can claim their share of the inheritance now — regardless of whether a will exists. (Source: Inheritance Act §§ 14 and 32)
Choose Settlement Type
Possible paths
Private Settlement
The heirs assume full personal responsibility for all debt — including unknown debt. Most common solution.
Public Settlement
The court assumes responsibility. The estate bears the debt, not the heirs personally. Used in cases of doubt or dispute.
Undivided Estate
Surviving spouse/cohabitant takes over without settlement. The children's inheritance is deferred.