Where to File for Letters Testamentary in Kentucky

If you need to file for letters testamentary in Kentucky, you must do so at the probate division of the Circuit Court in the county where the deceased person (decedent) resided at the time of death. Kentucky does not have a separate probate court system. Instead, probate matters fall under the jurisdiction of the Circuit Court in each of the state's 120 counties.

Understanding where and how to file is the first practical step in estate administration. A delay or filing in the wrong county can stall the entire process for weeks or months.

What Are Letters Testamentary and When Do You Need Them?

Letters testamentary are legal documents issued by the court that grant the executor named in a valid will the authority to act on behalf of the estate. Without them, you cannot access the decedent's bank accounts, transfer property, or settle debts in a legally binding way.

You need letters testamentary when the decedent left a will and you are named as executor. If there is no will, the process is slightly different you would petition for letters of administration instead. Both filings happen at the same court location.

How to Find Your County's Probate Court Location

Kentucky's Circuit Court clerks handle all probate filings at the county level. Here are some of the most commonly searched locations:

  • Jefferson County (Louisville): Jefferson Circuit Court Clerk, Hall of Justice, 600 W. Jefferson Street, Louisville, KY 40202
  • Fayette County (Lexington): Fayette Circuit Court Clerk, 120 N. Limestone, Lexington, KY 40507
  • Kenton County (Covington): Kenton Circuit Court Clerk, 230 Madison Avenue, Covington, KY 41011
  • Boone County (Burlington): Boone Circuit Court Clerk, 6025 Rogers Lane, Suite 301, Burlington, KY 41005
  • Warren County (Bowling Green): Warren Circuit Court Clerk, 1001 Center Street, Suite 102, Bowling Green, KY 42101
  • Daviess County (Owensboro): Daviess Circuit Court Clerk, 100 E. Second Street, Owensboro, KY 42303

For counties not listed above, visit the Kentucky Court of Justice website at courts.ky.gov and use the court locator tool. You can also call the Administrative Office of the Courts at (502) 573-2350 for direct guidance.

What to Bring When Filing for Letters Testamentary

Preparation prevents repeat trips. Before visiting the clerk's office, gather the following documents:

  1. The original will (not a copy) the court requires the original for filing
  2. A certified copy of the death certificate
  3. A completed petition to probate form (available at the clerk's office or online)
  4. Valid government-issued identification
  5. Filing fee, which varies by county but typically ranges from $43 to $100+

Some counties accept electronic filings, while others still require in-person submission. Call ahead to confirm the specific requirements for your county.

Common Mistakes That Delay the Process

Filing in the wrong county is the most frequent error. The petition must be filed where the decedent had legal domicile not where the executor lives or where property is located. Filing with a photocopy of the will instead of the original is another common setback.

Some executors also forget to request multiple certified copies of the letters testamentary. Financial institutions, title companies, and government agencies often require their own certified copies. Ordering extra at the time of filing saves both time and money.

Quick Checklist Before You File

  • Confirm the decedent's county of residence
  • Locate the original will
  • Obtain certified death certificates (order at least 10 copies)
  • Download or pick up the petition forms from the county clerk
  • Call the clerk's office to verify hours, fees, and filing methods
  • Bring valid identification and payment for filing fees
  • Request additional certified copies of the letters once issued

Filing for letters testamentary in Kentucky is a county-level process handled by the Circuit Court clerk. Taking the time to confirm the correct location, assemble complete documents, and understand local procedures will keep the estate administration moving without unnecessary delays.