States / Alabama
After a death in Alabama
Where to look for a will, who to ask and where to search for money in Alabama.
The will
Which court handles probate
The probate court in each county, led by the Judge of Probate, handles wills and estates.
"The probate court shall have original and general jurisdiction over the following matters:"
What to do with the original will
After a death, if an interested person asks, whoever has the will must deliver it with reasonable promptness to someone able to get it probated, or to a court if no such person is known. Someone who willfully fails to deliver it can owe damages.
"shall deliver it with reasonable promptness to a person able to secure its probate"
Ala. Code § 43-8-270. Read the source.
Wills deposited during life
Baldwin County residents may deposit a will with the county probate court for a fee of up to $25. We did not confirm a statewide rule, so people in other counties should ask their probate court.
"Any testator who resides in Baldwin County may deposit his or her will with the Baldwin County Probate Court."
Ala. Code § 45-2-83.40. Read the source.
Opening a safe deposit box
One county probate office says to start by asking the bank, because access is mostly a matter of bank policy. If the box was in the person's name alone and the bank refuses, the county says forcing access takes a court order sought by an attorney.
"the only way to force the bank to allow you access to the box is to hire an attorney"
Unclaimed money
Alabama State Treasury
"Claims may be filed online at no cost."
Instructions for heirs and estates
Source, checked 2026-10-15.
Small estates
We couldn't check this rule at an official source, so we won't guess. Ask the probate court clerk in the county where they lived.
Death certificates
Alabama Center for Health Statistics
First copy $15.00, more copies in the same order $6.00 each. Restricted records under 25 years are available to listed family members, documented grandchildren, estate or family representatives, and the informant. Older records are public.
Order from the state. Online vendors add fees.
State will and court rules checked 2026-11-06. See how we check facts or report a mistake. This is general information, not legal advice.