Good afternoon,
Is there a resource available that outlines the death claim requirements, by state, for depository accounts?

Thanks,
Michelle

What do you mean when you refer to "death claims"?

I'm guessing "death claims" involving payment to family members when no estate is being probated. To my knowledge there is no one resource that cites the rules of all the states.

Thank you John; yes that is what I meant. We are looking for a resource that outlines the requirements of each state to ensure we are compliant prior to paying out the party that notifies us.

I agree with John, you are not likely to find a single resource. Probate law is sometimes pretty complex and a single source for whether a specific State has a small estate provisions or a carve out for small deposit accounts, which likely would also involve State specific forms and procedures, etc. is going to be difficult to locate and if it does exist, it will not be free. Talk to a local probate attorney in your area.

The effect of those state laws will generally be affected by the location where the deposit was opened. Banks with branches in several states will need to know the rules in each of those states. It's one of the burdens of reaching across state lines.