Kentucky probate guide

Probate process in Kentucky

Kentucky probate is handled by the District Court. The Petition to Dispense with Administration (Form AOC-830) is available when the probate estate is $30,000 or less in personal property, and runs about $65-$95 in most counties. Kentucky recognized transfer-on-death deeds under the Uniform Real Property Transfer on Death Act, adopted as KRS § 394.310 et seq.

Kentucky probate at a glance

Court
District Court (Probate Division)
Typical timeline
26–52 weeks
Filing fee
$65–$200
Small-estate threshold
$30,000
TOD deed allowed?
Yes
Bond required by default?
Yes (unless waived)
Statute
Ky. Rev. Stat. §§ 394-395 (probate); § 391.030 (dispense)

Source: kycourts.gov. Fees and thresholds change — verify with your county court before filing.

How Kentucky probate works, step by step

  1. 1File petition for probate or to dispense with administration in District Court
  2. 2Court qualifies fiduciary and issues letters
  3. 3Notify Department of Revenue; six-month creditor claim period runs
  4. 4Inventory assets within 60 days; pay debts and Kentucky inheritance tax
  5. 5File periodic settlement and final settlement to close the estate

Probate by county in Kentucky

Filing fees, court contacts, and process detail for 1 Kentucky county:

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This page is informational and is not legal advice. Probate procedure varies by county and changes over time. Consult a licensed Kentucky probate attorney for advice specific to your situation.