States / Minnesota
After a death in Minnesota
Where to look for a will, who to ask and where to search for money in Minnesota.
The will
Which court handles probate
The district court in the county handles probate (wills and estates).
"the court or branch having jurisdiction in matters relating to the affairs of decedents"
What to do with the original will
After a death, on request of an interested person, whoever has custody of the will must deliver it with reasonable promptness to the court. Willful failure makes the custodian liable for damages and can lead to contempt after a court order.
"a person having custody of a will of the testator shall deliver it with reasonable promptness to an appropriate court"
Minn. Stat. § 524.2-516. Read the source.
Wills deposited during life
A living person (or their agent) can deposit a sealed will with any court (district court court administrator) for safekeeping under court rules; it is kept confidential and, once the court learns of the death, may be delivered to the appropriate probate court.
"A will may be deposited by the testator or the testator's agent with any court for safekeeping, under rules of the court."
Minn. Stat. § 524.2-515. Read the source.
Opening a safe deposit box
With satisfactory proof of death of the sole (or last surviving) lessee, bank staff open the box and examine contents in the presence of an interested person who appears in person and signs an affidavit that the box may hold a will, burial lot deed or burial instructions, or estate property. No court appointment needed first.
"an employee of the safe deposit company shall open the box and examine the contents"
Minn. Stat. § 55.10, subd. 4. Read the source.
Unclaimed money
Minnesota Department of Commerce
"Most claims require a completed and signed claim form as well as a copy of both photo identification and legal document listing social security number."
Instructions for heirs and estates
Source, checked 2026-10-15.
Small estates
A small estate may be able to skip full probate. What counts differs, so check with the court before you rely on a limit.
Ordinary personal property collection by affidavit
Limit $75,000. Wait 30 days.
Minn. Stat. §524.3-1201. Read the rule.
Death certificates
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First copy $13.00, more copies in the same order $6.00 each. Eligibility depends on the record classification and relationship to the deceased. Identification and a signature before a notary or county vital-records staff are required; consult the full eligibility table.
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.