My father passed away without a will and the state is holding his last $1,800. Seeking advice for retrieval.

Question

Possibly pro bono help since that’s literally all there is left. Needing to leave the area since I can’t make ends meet without his added income

James L. Arrasmith · Answer

I'm sorry to hear about your loss and the difficult situation you're facing. When someone passes away without a will in Florida, the process to retrieve their remaining assets, like your father's $1,800 held by the state, is known as intestate succession. Since the amount is relatively small, you may be able to go through a simpler process called "Disposition Without Administration," which is designed for small estates where the final expenses are more than the value of the property. 
 
To begin, you'll need to fill out a form available from the local probate court or online through the Florida court's website. The form will ask for details about your father's estate, any debts, and your relationship to him. You will also need to provide a copy of the death certificate and possibly other documentation to prove your right to claim the funds. 
 
Given your financial situation, you might want to seek assistance from legal aid organizations in Florida that provide free or low-cost services. Some county probate courts also offer help for people handling simple estates. It's important to act quickly, especially if you're planning to leave the area, so that you can settle these matters and focus on finding stability.

Q: My father passed away without a will and the state is holding his last $1,800. Seeking advice for retrieval.