States / Washington, DC
After a death in Washington, DC
Where to look for a will, who to ask and where to search for money in Washington, DC.
The will
Which court handles probate
The Probate Court (Probate Division of D.C. Superior Court), through the Register of Wills, handles wills and estates.
"to deliver it to the Probate Court, or to the Register of Wills"
What to do with the original will
Whoever has a will and willfully neglects to deliver it to the Probate Court, the Register of Wills, or the executor named in it for 90 days after learning of the death can be fined up to $500. It is a penalty rule, not a filing-by-deadline rule.
"for the period of 90 days after the death of the testator becomes known to him,"
D.C. Code § 18-111. Read the source.
Wills deposited during life
Beginning January 1, 2028, a District testator, the testator's agent, or the testator's attorney may deposit an original will with the Register of Wills for safekeeping (Will Registry, D.C. Code ch. 18-10). As of today (2026-11-06) this has not started per the statute text, so a family cannot yet rely on it.
"Beginning January 1, 2028, an original will may be deposited by a domiciliary testator"
D.C. Code § 18-1002(a). 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.
Unclaimed money
DC Office of Finance and Treasury
"However, the District provides this service free of charge."
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
DC Health Vital Records Division
First copy $18.00. The office lists family relationships, documented legal interests and authorized applicants. Each category has its own proof requirements.
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.