June 30, 2026

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis signed CS/HB 1337 (Chapter 2026-57), which takes effect on July 1, 2026, and implements several changes to Florida probate law. The legislation increases the threshold for summary administration from $75,000 to $150,000, increases the value of certain intestate estates that may be disposed of without administration from $10,000 to $20,000, requires financial institutions to provide personal representatives access to a decedent’s safe deposit box upon presentation of letters of administration, and creates Section 733.6125 of the Florida Statutes (“Section 733.6125”). Section 733.6125 authorizes personal representatives to initiate proceedings against custodians that refuse to recognize valid letters of administration and provides for attorney’s fees and costs in certain circumstances. For lenders, servicers, investors, and foreclosure practitioners, the legislation may affect estate administration timelines, the recognition of letters of administration, and the administration of assets held as part of a decedent’s estate.

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