Disclaimer: This article provides general information only and does not constitute legal advice.
Detailed Answer
Estate Administration in Vermont
In Vermont, the Probate Division of the Superior Court handles estate administration. The court oversees the distribution of a deceased person’s assets, appointment of personal representatives, and resolution of creditor claims. See 14 V.S.A. §10 and 14 V.S.A. §308.
For example, if Jane Doe passed away while residing in Chittenden County, her executor must file a probate petition with the Chittenden Probate Division. The petition typically includes the decedent’s will (if one exists), an inventory of assets, and a filing fee. The court schedules hearings, supervises creditor notices, and approves a final accounting before distributing assets to heirs.
Locate the proper office by using the county where the decedent lived. Visit the Vermont Judiciary’s Probate Division page for court locations and contact details: vermontjudiciary.org/court-records/services/probate.
Unclaimed Property Claims in Vermont
Vermont’s Unclaimed Property Program operates under the Uniform Unclaimed Property Act. The State Treasurer’s Office receives unclaimed assets, including dormant bank accounts, uncashed checks, and forgotten security deposits. See 27 V.S.A. Chapter 7 and 27 V.S.A. §131.
Suppose you discover an unclaimed utility deposit in your name. Search the online database at the Treasurer’s Unclaimed Property portal: vermonttreasurer.gov/unclaimed-property. If you find a match, download and complete a claim form, then submit proof of identity and ownership. The Treasurer’s Office reviews valid claims and issues payment. Access claim forms here: UP-Claim-Form.pdf.
Helpful Hints
- Collect key documents: death certificate, will, asset statements, and creditor notices.
- Identify the decedent’s county of residence to file probate in the correct division.
- Use the Vermont Judiciary website to confirm court addresses, hours, and fees.
- Search the State Treasurer’s unclaimed property database before filing a claim.
- Gather proof of ownership (e.g., past statements or account records) for unclaimed property.
- Consider consulting a probate attorney if the estate involves complex assets or disputes.