States / Vermont
After a death in Vermont
Where to look for a will, who to ask and where to search for money in Vermont.
The will
Which court handles probate
The Probate Division of the Superior Court (in the probate district where venue lies) handles wills and estates.
"the custodian shall deliver the will to the Probate Division of the Superior Court where venue lies"
What to do with the original will
Whoever has custody of a will must deliver it to the Probate Division of the Superior Court (or to the named executor) within 30 days after learning of the death. Separately, on request of an interested person, a custodian must deliver it to an appropriate court with reasonable promptness.
"If a person has the custody of a will, within 30 days after learning of the death of the testator,"
14 V.S.A. § 103 (and § 106(a)). Read the source.
Wills deposited during life
A will may be deposited for safekeeping in the Probate Division of the Superior Court; during the testator's life it is delivered only to the testator. Ask the probate court in the district where the person lived.
"A will may be deposited for safekeeping in the Probate Division of the Superior Court"
14 V.S.A. § 2. Read the source.
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.
Searching for a will or case
Ask the Probate Division in the district where the person lived whether a will was deposited or delivered.
"A will may be deposited for safekeeping in the Probate Division of the Superior Court"
Unclaimed money
Vermont State Treasurer's Office
"If you work directly with the State Treasurer’s office, there is no charge 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
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First copy $10.00, more copies in the same order $10.00 each. Family, legal guardians, certain court-appointed parties or their legal representatives; funeral homes/crematoriums may apply for death copies. Valid identification required.
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.