TN estate risk

Complexity triggers in Tennessee

Scenarios that increase estate risk, such as blended families or multi-state property.

Tennessee provides a year’s support for the surviving spouse and minor children that is prioritized over most claims.

Which situations create the most risk here?What types of families face higher default exposure?Where do disputes most often arise?

At a glance

Key takeaways

A surviving spouse is entitled to a year’s support from the estate.
Minor children are entitled to a year’s support if there is no surviving spouse or if the spouse is disqualified.

Questions to consider

State overview

Tennessee provides a year’s support for the surviving spouse and minor children that is prioritized over most claims.

A surviving spouse is entitled to a year’s support from the estate.
Minor children are entitled to a year’s support if there is no surviving spouse or if the spouse is disqualified.

Sources

Background sources

National sources provide baseline context; state statutes and court rules control in Tennessee.

Optional next steps

Educational resources only. No forms and no legal advice.

Context links

Understand death-risk context for Tennessee

LifeRiskIQ gives broader mortality context that can help frame when estate planning becomes more urgent.

Understand retirement-risk context for Tennessee

RetirementRiskIQ explains how asset growth and longevity can increase estate complexity over time.

Review federal estate tax basics

IRS guidance on federal estate tax thresholds, filings, and definitions.