Connecticut is the Most Expensive Place to Die: Report

By BRIAN MCCREADY

A new study has Connecticut placing No. 1 in a category it probably wishes it wasn’t.

According to a new study by probate officials, Connecticut is the most expensive state to die in America. Connecticut narrowly beats out New Jersey and Virginia for number one position.

The major reason is a new state law approved by the General Assembly and signed into law by Gov. Dannel P. Malloy that eliminated a $12,500 cap on probate court fees and doubled the fees on estates worth more than $2 million to 0.5 percent of the value, according to NBC Connecticut and ABC News.

In the past, the maximum fee was $12,500 but that was eliminated beginning on July 1 and is retroactive to all deaths dating back to January 1.

The major reason for the change is Connecticut lawmakers cut all funding for probate courts totaling $32 million, and probate court filings have also increased from $150 to $225, ABC News reports via the AP.

Connecticut probate officials say if the law was in effect last year two estates would have had to pay $1 million and 12 estates would have had to pay in excess of $100,000.

Some people speculate this may be another reason why the state’s wealthier residents are looking to leave Connecticut.

For Additional Info

• Officials: Connecticut Is Most Expensive Place to Die in US
• Connecticut Is Country’s Most Expensive Place to Die: Officials