What to Do When Someone Dies in Michigan

Michigan has a distinctive, popular estate planning tool worth knowing about, along with a fairly standard probate structure.

How do I get a death certificate in Michigan?

Certified death certificates in Michigan are issued through the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services Vital Records office, or often through the local county clerk. The funeral home typically handles ordering these on your behalf.

What is a “Lady Bird deed”?

One of Michigan’s most distinctive estate planning tools is the Lady Bird deed (formally, an enhanced life estate deed). It allows a homeowner to:

• Retain full control and use of their property during their lifetime
• Automatically transfer the property to a named beneficiary at death
• Avoid probate for that specific property entirely

This is a widely used, Michigan-popular tool for those planning ahead who want to avoid probate specifically for real estate - worth discussing with an attorney if you own property in Michigan and are planning ahead.

Is there a simplified probate process for small estates in Michigan?

Yes - Michigan offers a simplified assignment process for smaller qualifying estates, allowing assets to be distributed without full formal probate administration. The county Probate Court in the county where the deceased lived can confirm whether a specific estate qualifies.

Does Michigan have a state estate or inheritance tax?

Michigan does not currently have a state estate tax or inheritance tax. Since state tax law can change, confirming current status with an accountant is still worthwhile for larger or more complex estates.

Where can I get help?

• Michigan Department of Health and Human Services or county clerk for death certificate questions
• The county Probate Court for probate process questions
• State Bar of Michigan for attorney referrals, including estate and probate specialists

Michigan law can change. This is general educational information, not legal advice — please consult a Michigan-licensed attorney for guidance specific to your situation.