File Probate in Hillsborough County, Florida
A step-by-step guide to filing at the Clerk of Circuit Court—what documents you'll need, where to go, and what happens after you file.
If you're handling probate yourself in Hillsborough County, you can file your documents in person at the Clerk of Circuit Court or by mail. While attorneys are required to e-file, families filing without an attorney are exempt and can use paper forms.
Your Filing Options
How to File Your Documents
Paper Filing Available
You can file your probate documents in person or by mail. While attorneys are required to e-file in Hillsborough County, families handling probate themselves are exempt and can file on paper.
E-Filing Also Available
If you prefer, you can file electronically through the state's online system. This is optional for families filing without an attorney.
View E-Filing InformationCan You File Without an Attorney?
Not every estate requires an attorney. Factors like estate size, asset types, and whether beneficiaries agree can determine if self-filing at the Clerk of Circuit Court is realistic for your situation.
For a detailed cost comparison and filing checklist, see the full Hillsborough County Self-Filing Assessment.
Hillsborough County Filing Requirements
These are specific requirements for filing probate in this county. Following these guidelines will help avoid delays or rejected filings.
Before You File
Mandatory checklists before any probate order is signed
13th Circuit uses mandatory checklists before any probate order is signed.
Original Wills can be mailed or delivered in person
Original Wills can be mailed to P.O. Box 3360, Tampa, FL 33601 or delivered in person within 10 days per F.S. 732.901.
Document Requirements
Acknowledgment of Venue form required with Will filing
Acknowledgment of Venue form must accompany any Will filed.
In-Person Filing
The Clerk of Circuit Court is located at 800 E. Twiggs Street, Tampa, FL 33602. Phone: 813-276-8100. Hours: Monday - Friday, 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM.
What to Bring
Filing probate at the Clerk of Circuit Court requires the original will (if one exists), a certified death certificate, and information about heirs and beneficiaries. The court also requires details about estate assets and known debts.
Court Resources
For procedural questions about your filing, you can contact Clerk of the Circuit Court & Comptroller Victor D. Crist. The clerk's office handles filing questions but cannot provide legal advice.
Additional resources, forms, and fee schedules are available on the Clerk of Circuit Court website.
Clerk of Circuit Court
Hillsborough County
Paper Filing Available
E-Filing Optional
Notify Banks & Financial Institutions
Each institution has a separate death claim process. Find yours below.
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