© 2026 SimplyTrust Software Inc.
Step-by-step guide for executors navigating probate, from filing the will to closing the estate.
An executor (or personal representative) in Kansas is responsible for filing the will with the probate court, inventorying and appraising assets, notifying creditors, paying debts and taxes, and distributing remaining property to beneficiaries. The executor has a fiduciary duty to act in the best interest of the estate and its beneficiaries.
The probate petition filing fee in Kansas starts at approximately $109.5.K.S.A. 59-1507b (small estate affidavit); K.S.A. 59-2239 (creditor claims); K.S.A. 59-3301 through 59-3306 (Kansas Informal Administration Act); K.S.A. 59-1201 (inventory); K.S.A. 59-1101 (bond); K.S.A. 59-1104 (bond waiver); K.S.A. 59-2209 (publication); K.S.A. 59-1717 (fiduciary and attorney fees)Verified May 31, 2026 Additional fees may apply for certified copies, recording fees, and publication of notice to creditors.
Kansas requires the executor to publish notice to creditors in a local newspaper. Known creditors should also receive direct written notice. Creditors have 4 months to file claims.K.S.A. 59-1507b (small estate affidavit); K.S.A. 59-2239 (creditor claims); K.S.A. 59-3301 through 59-3306 (Kansas Informal Administration Act); K.S.A. 59-1201 (inventory); K.S.A. 59-1101 (bond); K.S.A. 59-1104 (bond waiver); K.S.A. 59-2209 (publication); K.S.A. 59-1717 (fiduciary and attorney fees)Verified May 31, 2026 The executor is personally liable for distributions made before the claim period expires if valid claims go unpaid.
Kansas allows estates valued at $75,000 or less to use a Small Estate Affidavit.K.S.A. 59-1507b (small estate affidavit); K.S.A. 59-2239 (creditor claims); K.S.A. 59-3301 through 59-3306 (Kansas Informal Administration Act); K.S.A. 59-1201 (inventory); K.S.A. 59-1101 (bond); K.S.A. 59-1104 (bond waiver); K.S.A. 59-2209 (publication); K.S.A. 59-1717 (fiduciary and attorney fees)Verified May 31, 2026 The waiting period is 0 days after death. This avoids the need for formal probate and significantly reduces time and cost.
Kansas allows executors to receive reasonable compensation.K.S.A. 59-1717 (fiduciary compensation "just and reasonable"; no statutory percentage)Verified May 31, 2026 Typical executor fees range from 2% to 4% of estate value. Executors can waive their fee entirely or accept a reduced amount. See a detailed breakdown with the Kansas executor fee calculator.
Probate costs in Kansas include court filing fees, attorney fees, executor compensation, publication costs, and potentially a surety bond. Total costs generally range from 3-8% of the estate value depending on complexity. The Kansas probate calculator provides a detailed cost estimate based on estate value.
In-depth guides covering Kansas probate laws, trust requirements, and estate planning strategies.
Answer a few questions to get a personalized checklist for your situation.
This checklist provides general guidance for estate settlement. Requirements vary by state and circumstance. Consult a licensed attorney for legal advice.
Get a complete guide for your specific circumstances.

Being named executor means navigating probate, managing assets, and distributing the estate. What's expected, what you can charge, and how to start.
Learn more
Losing a parent is overwhelming. What needs to happen next — settling the estate, navigating probate, and the steps to move forward.
Learn more