How Do I File Probate in Buffalo County, Nebraska?
A step-by-step guide to filing at the County Court—what documents you'll need, where to go, and what happens after you file.
Probate documents in Buffalo County can be filed in person at the County Court, by mail, or electronically. Most families handling probate themselves prefer paper filing, though e-filing is available. The court sits in the 9.
Your Filing Options
How to File Your Documents
Paper Filing Available
You can file your probate documents in person at the court or by mail.
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 County Court is realistic for your situation.
For a detailed cost comparison and filing checklist, see the full Buffalo County Self-Filing Assessment.
In-Person Filing
The County Court is located at , Kearney, NE 68848. Phone: 308-236-1228. Hours: Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM & 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM.
What to Bring
To file at the County Court you need: the original will (or proof there isn't one), a certified death certificate, contact information for all heirs and beneficiaries, and a summary of what the estate owns and owes.
Court Resources
Additional resources, forms, and fee schedules are available on the County Court website.
Frequently Asked Questions
You open probate by filing a petition with the County Court in Buffalo County, attaching the original will (if any), the death certificate, and the filing fee (about $500). Once the court issues letters, the personal representative can act.
At minimum: petition for probate, application for letters testamentary or of administration, notice to heirs, and an oath for the personal representative. Buffalo County uses the standard Nebraska probate forms — the court's website lists the current versions.
Nebraska allows informal (unsupervised) probate, which many families handle themselves for simple estates. The County Court in Buffalo County does not require attorney representation. Use the Nebraska self-filing assessment to see if your estate qualifies.
Yes. The County Court in Buffalo County accepts e-filing through the state portal. In-person filing at the courthouse is still available for those without digital access.
Assets stay locked, creditors can still pursue them, and beneficiaries cannot sell real property or close accounts. After a few years, interested parties can petition to open probate themselves. Waiting rarely helps. Families who set up a revocable living trust ahead of time bypass this problem entirely.
County Court
Buffalo County
P.O. Box 520
Kearney, NE 68848
Phone:
308-236-1228Fax:
308-236-1243
Hours:
Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM & 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM
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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