UT estate risk
Complexity triggers in Utah
Scenarios that increase estate risk, such as blended families or multi-state property.
Utah provides a spousal elective share and a family allowance for the surviving spouse and minor children.
At a glance
Key takeaways
- A surviving spouse may elect to take one-third of the augmented estate.
- A family allowance of up to $15,000 may be awarded during administration.
Questions to consider
Questions to consider in Utah
- Which situations create the most risk here?
- What types of families face higher default exposure?
- Where do disputes most often arise?
State overview
Utah provides a spousal elective share and a family allowance for the surviving spouse and minor children.
- A surviving spouse may elect to take one-third of the augmented estate.
- A family allowance of up to $15,000 may be awarded during administration.
Sources
- https://le.utah.gov/xcode/Title75/Chapter2/C75-2-S202_1800010118000101.pdf
- https://le.utah.gov/xcode/Title75/Chapter2/C75-2-S404_1800010118000101.pdf
Background sources
- Uniform Probate Code (2019) - Foreign personal representatives
Article IV addresses ancillary administration and multi-state estates.
- Uniform Adult Guardianship and Protective Proceedings Jurisdiction Act (UAGPPJA)
Jurisdiction conflicts for multi-state guardianship matters.
- Uniform Partition of Heirs Property Act (UPHPA)
Heirs property disputes and forced-sale protections.
National sources provide baseline context; state statutes and court rules control in Utah.
Optional next steps
Continue with related estate-risk context
Educational resources only. No forms and no legal advice.
Understand death-risk context for Utah
LifeRiskIQ gives broader mortality context that can help frame when estate planning becomes more urgent.
Understand retirement-risk context for Utah
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.