States / Kansas
After a death in Kansas
Where to look for a will, who to ask and where to search for money in Kansas.
The will
Which court handles probate
The district court in the county where the person lived handles probate.
"the district court having jurisdiction to probate it"
What to do with the original will
After a death, whoever has custody of the will must deliver it to the court with jurisdiction. Willful refusal after a court order is contempt. A person who knowingly withholds a will more than six months after death can owe attorney fees and damages. A will must be filed for probate within six months of death to be effective (K.S.A. 59-617, with exceptions).
"After the death of a testator the person having custody of the testator's will shall deliver it to the court which has jurisdiction thereof."
K.S.A. 59-621; 59-617; 59-618. Read the source.
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
After the sole lessee dies, the box may be opened by two bank employees (one an officer) in the presence of persons with a legal or beneficial interest. Testamentary instruments may be removed by the named executor, or after 60 days deposited with the district court; cemetery deeds and burial instructions may be delivered to the appropriate parties. No appointment needed first.
"Instruments of a testamentary nature may be removed by the named executor."
K.S.A. 9-1504. Read the source.
Searching for a will or case
After a death, a person holding a will may file it with the district court in the county of the decedent's last residence, so the clerk of that county's district court is the place to ask whether a will has been filed.
"file in the district court of the county of the decedent's last residence the decedent's will or a copy of such will"
Unclaimed money
Kansas State Treasurer
"The Kansas State Treasurer's office never charges for this service."
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 Vital Statistics
First copy $20.00, more copies in the same order $20.00 each. Requester must be at least 18 and be named on the record, an immediate family member, or show legal proof that it is needed for personal or property rights.
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.