Michigan Informal Probate Paperwork
Informal probate is the streamlined Michigan process for opening an uncontested estate. We prepare the petition, notice, inventory, and accounting forms.
Important: Clear Path Document Services is a non-attorney document preparation service and cannot provide legal advice. No attorney-client relationship is created. Read full disclaimer
Quick Answer
Michigan informal probate is an uncontested probate path under the Estates and Protected Individuals Code (EPIC). The probate register, not a judge, reviews the petition. It is appropriate when the will is uncontested, the named personal representative is willing to serve, and no heirs are expected to object.
Who qualifies for this service?
This document preparation service is a fit for Michigan residents who match the criteria below. If your situation is different, contact us and we'll tell you whether we can help or whether you should speak with an attorney.
- Decedent was a Michigan resident or owned Michigan real estate.
- Original signed will is available (or there is no will and no disputes among heirs).
- The proposed personal representative is willing and qualified to serve.
- All known heirs and devisees agree to informal proceedings.
- No anticipated disputes over will validity or distributions.
How the process works
Clear, predictable steps from intake to court-ready paperwork.
Intake
Send us the will, death certificate, and asset list.
Packet Preparation
At your direction, we prepare the PC 558 application, PC 571 acceptance, and applicable notice and proof-of-service forms.
You Review
Review every document for accuracy before signing.
Filing With Court
Use our county-specific filing instructions.
Ongoing Filings
Inventory, accountings, and final closing prepared as needed.
Paperwork we organize for you
Document preparation only. We do not represent you in court.
Documents and information you'll need
- Original signed will (if any)
- Certified death certificate
- Decedent's full legal name and addresses for last 5 years
- Names, addresses, and ages of all heirs and devisees
- Asset list with current values
- Outstanding debts and bills
- Funeral and burial expense receipts
- Personal representative ID and contact info
Common mistakes to avoid
Small errors can cost you weeks. Here's what we see most often.
- Filing without the original will (copies generally not accepted in informal probate).
- Missing the Notice to Creditors publication, which starts the four-month creditor period.
- Failing to mail notice to all heirs and devisees within 14 days of appointment.
- Submitting an inventory without an inventory fee calculation worksheet.
- Late annual or final accounting filings.
What you can expect to pay
Michigan probate court filing fee ($175) and inventory fee (calculated on estate value) are paid separately to the court.
Opening Packet
$495
PC 558, PC 571, applicable notices, proof of service, and notice to creditors.
Opening + Inventory
$795
Opening packet plus inventory and inventory-fee worksheet.
Full Administration
$1,295
Opening, inventory, annual accounting, and sworn closing statement.
Court filing fees, recording fees, publication costs, and government charges are separate and paid directly to the court or agency.
Nothing is purchased online. We review every matter first, then send you a written quote — you decide whether to proceed before any payment is due.
Local Michigan considerations
Michigan informal probate is filed in the probate court of the decedent's county of residence. Each Michigan county uses the statewide PC-series forms but may have local cover sheets, scheduling notices, or e-filing requirements. We prepare your packet to match your county's local practice.
Key Terms
- EPIC (Estates and Protected Individuals Code)
- MCL 700.1101 et seq. — the Michigan statute governing wills, trusts, probate, and guardianships.
- Personal Representative
- The person appointed by the court to administer the estate, formerly called an executor or executrix.
- Probate Register
- A non-judicial officer who reviews informal probate applications without a court hearing.
- Notice to Creditors
- A published notice that starts a four-month period for creditors to file claims against the estate.
People Also Ask
Reviewed and updated by the Clear Path document team. Informational only — not legal advice.
Ready to get your paperwork started?
Start the guided intake, or call or text us — we review every matter before quoting a price, and nothing is purchased online.