Detailed Answer
Gathering essential information and documents before a loved one passes away can streamline Missouri probate. Probate begins when the court appoints a personal representative under RSMo 473.033. While formal probate often takes six to twelve months, having paperwork organized in advance can shorten delays and reduce stress.
Will and Estate Planning Documents: Locate the original signed will and any codicils. Confirm the will meets execution requirements under RSMo 472.010. Include trust agreements, powers of attorney, healthcare directives, and living wills.
Personal and Contact Information: Record the decedent’s full legal name, date of birth, Social Security number, and last known address. Gather marriage certificates, divorce decrees, and military discharge papers. List contact details for the nominated personal representative and alternates named in the will.
Asset Inventory: Create a detailed list of real estate holdings with deeds and recent tax statements. Document bank and investment accounts, retirement plans, and life insurance policies, including account numbers, institution contacts, and beneficiary forms.
Debts and Liabilities: Compile statements for mortgages, credit cards, auto loans, medical bills, and other obligations. Include loan agreements, vehicle titles, lease contracts, and any promissory notes.
Safe Deposit and Digital Assets: Note safe deposit box locations, keys, and co-owners. Maintain a secure record of digital assets—online banking credentials, email and social media accounts, and cryptocurrency wallets.
Death Certificates: Plan to order multiple certified copies of the death certificate immediately after passing. Financial institutions and government agencies typically require original certified copies to transfer or close accounts.
By organizing these items beforehand, you enable the personal representative to file probate paperwork efficiently. For small estates valued under the threshold set in RSMo 474.160, the representative may use a small estate affidavit instead of full administration.
Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes and does not constitute legal advice.
Helpful Hints
- Review your document list annually with an estate planning attorney.
- Store the original will in a secure but accessible place, such as a fireproof safe or with the drafting attorney.
- Update beneficiary designations on retirement accounts and life insurance policies after major life events.
- Keep a current digital asset inventory in a password-protected file or secure vault.
- Inform the chosen personal representative and trusted family members of the document locations.