§ 5–608
Statutes in effect as of October 1, 2026.
Md. Code Ann., Est. & Trusts § 5-608 (2026)
Title 5. Opening the Estate
Subtitle 6. Small Estates
§ 5–608LinkCopy Citation
(a)
If the only property owned by a decedent is not more than two motor vehicles and the decedent’s surviving spouse is the decedent’s only heir or legatee:
(1)
Administration of an estate of the decedent is not required; and
(2)
The Motor Vehicle Administration may transfer title to a motor vehicle owned by the decedent to the surviving spouse if:
(i)
The surviving spouse certifies to the Motor Vehicle Administration that all debts and taxes owed by the decedent have been paid; and
(ii)
The Motor Vehicle Administration receives a copy of the decedent’s death certificate and suitable proof of the existence of the marriage.
(b)
If the only property owned by a decedent is a boat or vessel with an appraised value that does not exceed $5,000 and the decedent’s surviving spouse is the decedent’s only heir or legatee:
(1)
Administration of an estate of the decedent is not required; and
(2)
The agency that issued the certificate of title may transfer the certificate of title for the boat or vessel to the surviving spouse of the decedent if:
(i)
The surviving spouse certifies to the agency that all debts and taxes owed by the decedent have been paid;
(ii)
The agency receives satisfactory evidence of the value of the boat or vessel, which may be provided by a statement signed by two individuals stating that:
(1)
They have personal knowledge of the value of boats or vessels of the type that is in the estate; and
(2)
The value of the boat or vessel does not exceed $5,000; and
(iii)
The agency receives a copy of the decedent’s death certificate and suitable proof of the existence of the marriage.