States / Kentucky
After a death in Kentucky
Where to look for a will, who to ask and where to search for money in Kentucky.
The will
Which court handles probate
The District Court of the county where the person lived. If they had no known home in Kentucky, the county depends on where their land or other property is, or where they died.
"Wills shall be proved before, and admitted to record by, the District Court of the testator's residence"
What to do with the original will
The law we confirmed lets a District Court summon a person who has a will and make them produce it. We did not confirm a separate rule setting a deadline to hand a will in on their own.
"may summon him, and, by proper process, compel him to produce it."
KRS 394.160. Read the source.
Wills deposited during life
Kentucky's law letting people leave a will with the county clerk for safekeeping was repealed in 2019, and we found no current replacement. Ask the clerk about any will deposited before then.
"Catchline at repeal: Will may be deposited with clerk for safekeeping."
KRS 394.110 (repealed 2019). Read the source.
Opening a safe deposit box
With proof of death and a key, a spouse, adult child, parent, named personal representative, or other authorized person may open the box with a bank employee to look for a will or burial papers. The bank gives them the originals and leaves copies in the box; nothing else can be removed this way.
"a lessor shall permit the interested person to open and examine the contents of the safe deposit box"
KRS 286.2-105. Read the source.
Unclaimed money
Kentucky State Treasury
"Use this free tool to see if you have unclaimed property."
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
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.