I. Introduction
Probate records are legal documents that pertain to a person’s final will and testament when they pass away. These documents often include information about their property, assets, and beneficiaries. Probate records are an essential genealogical resource that can help individuals learn about their ancestors. Unfortunately, finding free probate records online can be difficult. This article aims to provide tips and tricks on how to access probate records without breaking the bank.
II. Top 5 Websites to Find Free Probate Records Online
There are several websites that offer probate records for free. Here are the top five:
- FamilySearch – A free family history website that offers probate records from around the world. Users can create a free account, and access probate records that are available in certain areas.
- Ancestry – A popular genealogy website that offers probate records as part of its subscription service. Ancestry offers a free trial that users can take advantage of to access probate records for 14 days.
- National Archives – The National Archives offers free probate records from certain areas in the US. Users can search for records by state, and request records online for a fee.
- Findmypast – Another genealogy website that offers probate records as part of its subscription service. Findmypast also offers a free trial that users can take advantage of to access probate records for a limited time.
- US Probate Services – A website that offers free probate record searches for all 50 states in the US. Users can create a free account and search for records in their area.
While some of these websites offer free access to probate records, others require users to create an account or sign up for a free trial. However, these free trials can provide users with access to thousands of probate records, making them worth exploring.
III. Beginner’s Guide to Finding Free Probate Records Online
For beginners just starting with the search for probate records, it can be overwhelming to know where to begin. Here are some tips to get started:
- Know the state – Each state has different laws regarding probate records and where they are kept. Understanding where to look can save a lot of time and effort.
- Search for digitized records – Many archives and libraries have digitized their records and made them available online. Knowing where to look for these records can be beneficial.
- Use search engines – Search engines like Google can be a great tool for searching for free probate records. Always verify sources before using them.
- Research county-level databases – Many probate records are held on the county level, making county-level databases a valuable resource.
By following these tips, beginners can successfully start their search for probate records online for free.
IV. Tricks and Tips for Finding Probate Records Online for Free
In addition to the top five websites mentioned earlier, there are other tricks and tips for finding free probate records online:
- Check with local libraries and archives – Many local libraries and archives have access to probate records, some of which may be available online for free.
- Use Interlibrary Loan – For records that are not available online, Interlibrary Loan can help locate them from another library and have them sent for free to your local library.
- Browse government websites – Government websites are a great resource for finding free probate records, as many agencies post them online for easy access.
- Search court websites – Court websites may offer free probate records in a searchable database, making it easier for users to find what they need.
- Use online forums – Online forums and social media groups dedicated to genealogy can be a valuable source of information and help in finding free probate records.
By using these methods, users can find probate records online without breaking the bank.
V. How to Access Probate Records Online for Free
Once users have found probate records they would like to access, there are several steps to obtain them for free:
- Validate the record – Before accessing the record, it is essential to ensure that it is authentic and not a fake. Invalid documents may lead to legal issues and incorrect information on genealogy charts.
- Access records online – Many of the websites mentioned earlier offer free access to probate records online. Users can also use interlibrary loan to obtain free copies of records not available online.
- Search for records in specific states- As mentioned earlier, each state has different laws regarding probate records. Users should ensure they have the correct information to access records from their desired state.
- Request access to a will – Some probate records may only be accessible by requesting access to a will through the executor or an attorney. This process may take longer but can lead to finding valuable information.
- Ensure security – As with any sensitive information online, users should ensure their computers and online communication are secure when accessing probate records online.
By following these steps, users can access probate records online securely and for free.
VI. Understanding Probate Records: A Beginner’s Guide to Finding Them Online for Free
Probate records can be beneficial for genealogy research, as they provide information about ancestors’ assets and property. Understanding the types of probate records and how they can be found online for free is essential. The most common types of probate records include:
- Wills – A legal document that outlines how a person’s assets will be distributed after they pass away.
- Probate Court Records – A legal filing that outlines the distribution of assets for those who died without a will.
- Letters of Administration – A legal filing from the court that formally appoints someone to represent the estate of a deceased person.
- Death Certificates – A legal document recorded after a person’s death, that provides information about their birth, death, and next of kin.
By understanding the types of probate records, users can begin their search for them online for free. With the tips and tricks offered in this article, users can successfully find the probate records they need for their genealogy research.
VII. Conclusion
In conclusion, probate records are an essential genealogical resource for those researching their ancestry. Finding free probate records online can be challenging, but with the websites, tips, and tricks outlined in this article, users can access the records they need without breaking the bank. Remember always to verify sources and keep personal information secure when searching for probate records online.