Most estates go through probate in Florida, even when some assets skip this legal process. Gathering the right paperwork after losing a loved one helps make a difficult time less overwhelming.
Having the following documents ready lets you handle probate more smoothly, giving you time to focus on your family and honoring your loved one.
Death certificates to prove passing
The court requires a certified copy of the death certificate to start the probate case. While you only need to file one certificate, you might want to order at least five certified copies from the funeral home.
Banks, insurance companies and government offices usually ask for original certificates, not photocopies.
The original will showing final wishes
Find the original will with signatures, not just copies. Check safes, safe deposit boxes or with your loved one’s lawyer.
Moreover, make sure to get the latest or final version of the will. Any codicils or changes to the will are important too.
Without the original will, the court might follow state law instead of your loved one’s wishes.
Statements for complete financial snapshot
Gather all financial documents showing what your loved one owned at death:
- Bank accounts including checking, savings and certificates of deposit
- Investment accounts such as brokerage statements, stock certificates and bonds
- Retirement accounts including IRAs, 401(k)s and pension information
- Digital assets like cryptocurrency holdings or valuable online accounts
- Business ownership documents for any companies or partnerships
- Recent tax returns which often reveal additional assets
These documents help the personal representative create the estate inventory required by Florida probate courts.
Property deeds to confirm real estate ownership
Collect property deeds, especially for Florida real estate which usually goes through probate. Get mortgage statements to show any home loans. Don’t forget vehicle titles for cars, boats or RVs.
Debt information to avoid surprise bills
Gather credit card statements, medical bills, loans and other debts. The person handling the estate must notify creditors during probate. Knowing about debts early prevents surprises later.
Organizing now brings peace later
Talking with aging parents about where they keep important documents prevents frantic searching after death. The better organized these papers are now, the smoother probate will go. More importantly, this level of organization allows you and your family to focus on healing instead of paperwork during this difficult time.