MO risk area
Probate risk in Missouri
Court-supervised estate process, timing, cost exposure, and public record requirements.
Missouri permits small-estate administration by affidavit for estates under a statutory cap after a 30-day waiting period.
How long does probate typically take here?What costs and fees should families expect?What becomes public during probate?
At a glance
Key takeaways
- The estate value must be $40,000 or less after liens, debts, and encumbrances.
- At least 30 days must pass after death and no letters can be pending.
- A small-estate affidavit is filed with the probate division and may require a bond.
- Small-estate affidavits are filed with the probate division and may require a bond if ordered by the court.
Questions to consider
Questions this risk area helps you evaluate in Missouri
- How long does probate typically take here?
- What costs and fees should families expect?
- What becomes public during probate?
State overview
Missouri permits small-estate administration by affidavit for estates under a statutory cap after a 30-day waiting period.
- The estate value must be $40,000 or less after liens, debts, and encumbrances.
- At least 30 days must pass after death and no letters can be pending.
- A small-estate affidavit is filed with the probate division and may require a bond.
- Small-estate affidavits are filed with the probate division and may require a bond if ordered by the court.
Sources
Risk sources
- Uniform Probate Code (2019) - Probate of wills and administration
Article III covers appointment, notices, creditor claims, and small-estate collection (Section 3-1201).
National sources provide baseline context; state statutes and court rules control in Missouri.