States / Hawaii
After a death in Hawaii
Where to look for a will, who to ask and where to search for money in Hawaii.
The will
Which court handles probate
The Circuit Court of the circuit where the person lived (First: Oahu; Second: Maui, Moloka'i, Lana'i; Third: Hawai'i island; Fifth: Kaua'i).
"also have exclusive jurisdiction in probate, guardianship and criminal felony cases."
What to do with the original will
After the testator's death, if an interested person asks, whoever has custody of the will must deliver it with reasonable promptness to a person able to probate it, or deposit it with an appropriate court if none is known. Willful failure can make the holder liable for damages, up to treble damages. No fixed number of days.
"a person having custody of a will of the testator shall either deliver it with reasonable promptness."
HRS § 560:2-516. Read the source (an unofficial copy of the law).
Wills deposited during life
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.
Opening a safe deposit box
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.
Unclaimed money
Hawaii Department of Budget and Finance
"Unclaimed property owners may search and file claims for property 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
Office of Health Status Monitoring, Issuance/Vital Statistics Section
First copy $10.00, more copies in the same order $4.00 each. A direct and tangible interest is required. Categories include spouse, parents, descendants, common-ancestor relatives, guardians, representatives and specific documented interests.
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.