California Probate Form DE-172

Creditor's Claim (Probate)

This page is for educational purposes only and is not legal advice. Forms and requirements change frequently — verify the current version with your local probate court or an attorney.

Last updated: August 1, 2026

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About Creditor's Claim (Probate)

Used by a creditor to file a claim for money owed by the decedent or the estate, itemizing the debt and supporting documentation, with a proof-of-service section.

When you'd use it: Filed with the court and served on the personal representative within the statutory claim period after Notice of Administration to Creditors is given.

Where to get the official form

The official version of Creditor's Claim (Probate) is published as a PDF by the California courts. We checked this link and it resolved to a form on an official court or government website — always download the current version directly from the source rather than a third-party copy:

Verified official PDF

Download Creditor's Claim (Probate) (PDF) →

Source: courts.ca.gov

Link last checked: August 1, 2026

How to file Creditor's Claim (Probate) in California

  1. Step 1 — Confirm you have the correct formUse Creditor's Claim (Probate) (DE-172) when filed with the court and served on the personal representative within the statutory claim period after Notice of Administration to Creditors is given. Double-check it's the right form for your situation — California probate forms are revised periodically, so verify the name and number against your court's current form list before you start.
  2. Step 2 — Complete every required fieldFill out Creditor's Claim (Probate) carefully and review it for errors before filing. Probate cases can already take months — a small mistake on the form can set your timeline back further.
  3. Step 3 — Get it notarized or witnessed if requiredSome probate forms must be signed in front of a notary or witnesses. Check the instructions on the form itself, and arrange notarization before you file if it's required.
  4. Step 4 — File it with the correct courtSubmit Creditor's Claim (Probate) to the probate court or county clerk handling the estate — usually in the California county where the deceased lived. Ask the clerk how they prefer to receive filings (in person, by mail, or e-filing).

Working through the Creditor's Claim (Probate)? SwiftProbate builds a personalized, step-by-step checklist for settling the estate — so you know which forms to file, in what order, and by when.

Get help with this form

Probate in California

See the full California probate guide for filing deadlines, small-estate options, timelines, costs, and county courthouse details.

Read the California probate guide →

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Creditor's Claim (Probate) (DE-172)?
Used by a creditor to file a claim for money owed by the decedent or the estate, itemizing the debt and supporting documentation, with a proof-of-service section. You'd typically use it when filed with the court and served on the personal representative within the statutory claim period after Notice of Administration to Creditors is given.
Where do I file Creditor's Claim (Probate) in California?
Probate forms are filed with the probate court or county clerk in the California county where the deceased person lived. Our California probate guide can help you find the right courthouse, filing fees, and local requirements.
Do I need a lawyer to complete Creditor's Claim (Probate)?
Many people complete probate forms themselves, especially for smaller or uncontested estates. Complex estates may benefit from professional advice. SwiftProbate is an informational tool that helps you understand and organize the process — it is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice.
Is Creditor's Claim (Probate) available online?
Most California probate forms are published as PDFs by the state courts or the county clerk. You can find the official source linked above.

Other California Probate Forms

Waiver of Accounting (Probate Code § 10954)7001-PRInformal Accounting - Blocked Accounts [Confidential]VN267Order Appointing Investigator and Notice of Investigation Costs3515Ex Parte Petition for Final Discharge and OrderDE-295/GC-395

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Disclaimer: This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Probate forms and requirements vary by state, county, and individual circumstances, and change over time. Always verify the current form and instructions with your local probate court, and consult a qualified attorney for advice specific to your situation. SwiftProbate is not a law firm and does not provide legal representation.