How Do I File Probate in Hudson County, New Jersey?
A step-by-step guide to filing at the Surrogate's Court—what documents you'll need, where to go, and what happens after you file.
Probate cases in Hudson County are filed at the Surrogate's Court. File in person during business hours or by mail.
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.
Can 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 Surrogate's Court is realistic for your situation.
Pro se complaint packets and forms available in the online document library.
Get the Hudson County probate forms →For a detailed cost comparison and filing checklist, see the full Hudson County Self-Filing Assessment.
Hudson 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
10-day probate waiting period
Probate cannot be completed until the day following the tenth day after death. The named executor must bring the original will to the Surrogate's Court by the tenth day after death.
SourceDocument Requirements
Required documents for probate
Original will, certified death certificate, and valid photo ID of the executor. All heirs and beneficiaries must be identified with full names and addresses.
SourceRequired documents for administration (no will)
Certified death certificate, valid photo ID, and identification of all next of kin with full names, addresses, and relationship to decedent.
SourceCourt Appearances
In-Person Filing
The Surrogate's Court is located at Hudson County Administration Building, 595 Newark Avenue, 4th Floor, Room 407, Jersey City, NJ 07306. Phone: 201-795-6378. Hours: Monday - Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM.
Before You Go
Appointment required
An appointment is required to file in person. Office operates by appointment only; submit an appointment request online or call 201-795-6378. The named executor must bring the original will to the Surrogate by the tenth day after death.
What to Bring
To file at the Surrogate's 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 Surrogate's Court website.
Court information verified June 2, 2026 · Source
Frequently Asked Questions
You open probate by filing a petition with the Surrogate's Court in Hudson County, attaching the original will (if any), the death certificate, and the filing fee ($100). 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. Hudson County uses the standard New Jersey probate forms — the court's website lists the current versions.
New Jersey permits self-representation, but formal probate procedures make it impractical for most families. The Surrogate's Court staff can accept filings but cannot give legal advice. Check the New Jersey self-filing assessment before deciding.
Hudson County typically requires in-person or mail filing for probate petitions. Check the court's website for the latest procedures — some counties have added e-filing for specific document types.
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.
Surrogate's Court
Hudson County
Hudson County Administration Building, 595 Newark Avenue, 4th Floor, Room 407
Jersey City, NJ 07306
Phone:
201-795-6378Fax:
201-795-5488
Email:
hcsurrogate@hcnj.usHours:
Monday - Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
Paper Filing Available
Notify Banks & Financial Institutions
Each institution has a separate death claim process. Find yours below.
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