For known or reasonably ascertainable creditors who did not receive any notice: These creditors have up to 2 years after the date of death to file claims. This protects creditors whom an executor should have directly notified but didn't.
Unknown creditors must file their claims within the 90-day window following the publication of the notice. Note that all claims against an estate are barred two years after the decedent's date of death, regardless of whether a probate proceeding has been initiated or a Notice to Creditors has been published.
For creditors who only received notice via publication: These creditors have up to 3 months from the date of first publication to file a claim. For known or reasonably ascertainable creditors who did not receive any notice: These creditors have up to 2 years after the date of death to file claims.
ALTHOUGH YOU ARE NOT REQUIRED TO HAVE AN ATTORNEY FOR CERTAIN PROBATE PROCEEDINGS, ONLY AN ATTORNEY CAN GIVE LEGAL ADVICE. IF YOU CHOOSE TO PROCEED WITHOUT AN ATTORNEY, AT ANY TIME IN YOUR CASE YOU MAY OPT TO HIRE ONE.
You, the plaintiff, must file a “Statement of Claim” form, available at your Clerk's office. This must be fully completed and signed to receive a pre-trial conference date. If your claim is based upon written documentation, attach a copy of the contract to the Statement of Claim form. You may file by mail or in person.
In Florida, probate must usually be initiated a short time after death. The will, if there is one, must be filed with the court within 10 days of the death. Even though there is no legal penalty for missing this window, it's very important to file promptly to avoid unnecessary delays in the probate process.
The statement of claim should be typed or printed in black ink. Make certain you file your claim against the right party. Copies of contracts, notes, leases, receipts, or other evidence in support of your claim must be attached to your statement of claim, and copied to each person sued and the court.
Florida Probate Rule 5.490 requires that the Claim be filed in duplicate with one copy containing an original signature. The clerk will send a copy of the claim to the Attorney for the Personal Representative.