What to Do When Someone Dies in Michigan
Reviewed by Everendium Editorial Team · Last reviewed August 18, 2026
Quick answer
Michigan probate is handled through the county Probate Court, and the state offers a simplified assignment process for small estates. Michigan does not currently have a state estate or inheritance tax, and many Michigan homeowners use a 'Lady Bird deed' (an enhanced life estate deed) specifically to avoid probate on real estate.
Michigan has a distinctive, popular estate planning tool worth knowing about, along with a fairly standard probate structure.
Death certificates
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.
The 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.
Where probate happens
Probate in Michigan is handled through the county Probate Court in the county where the deceased lived.
Simplified process for small estates
Michigan offers a simplified assignment process for smaller qualifying estates, allowing assets to be distributed without full formal probate administration. The county Probate Court can confirm whether a specific estate qualifies.
No current 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 to 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.
Frequently asked questions
How do I get a death certificate in Michigan?+
The funeral home typically orders certified copies through the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services Vital Records office, or the local county clerk, on your behalf.
What is a 'Lady Bird deed'?+
An enhanced life estate deed, commonly used in Michigan, that lets a homeowner retain full control of their property during their lifetime while automatically transferring it to a named beneficiary at death, without going through probate. This is a distinctly popular Michigan estate planning tool worth discussing with an attorney if you own real estate in the state.
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 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 worthwhile for larger or more complex estates.
Sources
Related glossary terms
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