How do I find out if I was on someone’s will is a question that comes up a lot in Wichita after a death, especially when family communication is unclear. In Kansas, you usually find out one of two ways. Either the executor or a lawyer contacts you, or you locate the will through the probate court if a case was opened. A will does not automatically get read publicly to everyone. If you have not been told anything, it does not always mean you were left out. The estate may not be in probate yet, or the person may have used non-probate transfers that do not require a will.
Start with the executor or the close family
The executor is the person named to handle the estate. If probate has started, that person has a duty to follow the will and notify beneficiaries and heirs as the court requires. If you know who the executor is, reach out directly. If you do not know, a close relative may be able to tell you who is handling things.
- Ask who is serving as executor – this is the person who must carry out the will.
- Request a copy if probate is open – beneficiaries often receive the will during the process.
- Keep your request calm and clear – estate work moves slower than most people expect.
Check if probate was filed in Kansas
In Kansas, a will becomes part of the probate file once it is filed with the district court. If the person lived or owned property in Sedgwick County, the probate case is usually filed in Wichita. Probate files are often public, except for parts sealed by law, so you can look up the case and ask to view the will.
- Search for a probate case under the person’s name – the court can confirm if one exists.
- Ask the probate clerk how to view the will – they can guide you through the request steps.
- Bring identification – courts may ask for ID before releasing copies.
Know that some assets pass outside a will
Many Kansas estates never go through full probate because assets transfer directly to a named beneficiary. If that happened, you might not see your name in a will even if you received something. Examples include life insurance, retirement accounts, joint tenancy property, and pay-on-death bank accounts.
- Beneficiary designations – life insurance and retirement accounts go to the listed person.
- Joint ownership – property held jointly can pass straight to the survivor.
- Trusts – a trust may control distribution instead of a will.
What to do if you think a will exists but no one will share it
If you strongly believe you were included and probate is moving without you, a Wichita probate lawyer can check the court file and confirm your status. Lawyers can also help if you suspect the will is being hidden or if you need to protect your rights as an heir.
In Wichita, Kansas, you can find out if you were on someone’s will by contacting the executor, checking for a probate case with the district court, and remembering that some assets pass to beneficiaries outside the will.