08/15/2026
What Is the Four-Year Rule in Texas Probate?
Texas generally requires an application to probate a will to be filed within four years after the decedent's death, subject to statutory exceptions.
This is one reason families should not put off dealing with an estate.
Waiting can create additional complications involving witnesses, property, creditors, title, and family relationships.
The four-year rule does not mean that every estate must be completely administered within four years. It concerns the time for initiating probate of a will.
Texas Estates Code § 256.003 addresses the time for an application for probate of a will.
Bottom line: If someone recently died and left a will, do not put the will in a drawer and assume there is plenty of time to deal with it.