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Missouri Probate Timeline Calculator

Estimate how long probate will take in Missouri — based on whether you have independent administration, and the six-month creditor window under RSMo § 473.360.

Based on RSMo 473.360, 473.433, 473.444, 473.780 FigureMyTax Editorial Team Free · no sign-up

By the FigureMyTax Editorial Team · How we calculate

Your Missouri probate

Pick the options that match your estate — the estimate updates instantly.

Estimated timeline in Missouri
6–12 months
Independent administration, cooperative heirs, no real estate sale
What is independent administration? →
Facing probate in Missouri?

A local probate attorney can review your estate — many offer a free consultation.

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Missouri's probate timeline, at a glance

MilestoneMissouri ruleSource
Apply for lettersWithin 1 year of deathRSMo 473.050
Publish notice of lettersOnce/week for 4 consecutive weeksRSMo 473.033
Inventory dueWithin 30 days of lettersRSMo 473.233
Creditor claim window6 months from first publication (or 2 months from mailed notice, whichever later)RSMo 473.360
PR need not pay claims before6 months from first publicationRSMo 473.433
Absolute claim bar1 year from date of death, no exceptionsRSMo 473.444
Earliest independent-admin closing6 months and 10 days after first publicationRSMo 473.843

Missouri probate timeline — frequently asked questions

How long does probate take in Missouri?

Most Missouri estates take 6 to 12 months. The estate must generally stay open at least six months for the creditor claim period under RSMo § 473.360, and the personal representative cannot be compelled to pay claims before that period runs under RSMo § 473.433.

What is independent administration in Missouri?

Under RSMo § 473.780 and following, independent administration lets the personal representative settle the estate with fewer hearings and less ongoing court approval than supervised administration — generally faster and less expensive, available when the will allows it or all interested parties consent.

Is there an absolute deadline for Missouri probate claims?

Yes. Under RSMo § 473.444, all claims are forever barred one year after the decedent's death, regardless of publication or notice — a hard outer limit that neither the six-month window nor any extension can push past.

Does Missouri require an attorney for probate?

Generally yes, for both independent and supervised administration. RSMo § 473.787 requires a personal representative who isn't a licensed attorney to be represented by counsel, with the main exception being the small estate affidavit.

Missouri probate tools & guides

Missouri Probate DeadlinesEvery statutory date, with citations What Delays Probate in MissouriThe real causes, beyond the baseline Independent vs SupervisedWhich one applies to your estate Missouri Probate vs Living TrustWould a trust have avoided this?

This calculator provides an estimate for general guidance only and is not legal advice. Figures are based on Missouri statute (RSMo 473.033, 473.050, 473.233, 473.360, 473.433, 473.444, 473.780, 473.787, 473.843). Actual timelines depend on the specific Probate Division's calendar, whether the estate is contested, and how quickly the personal representative files. Confirm current timelines with the county Probate Division or a licensed Missouri attorney before acting.