Ohio Probate Form Form 8.0

Citation to Surviving Spouse to Exercise Elective Rights

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: November 5, 2026

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About Citation to Surviving Spouse to Exercise Elective Rights

This form is a citation directing a surviving spouse to elect whether to exercise their rights as surviving spouse, including the right to elect against the will.

When you'd use it: The form states it is used to cite a surviving spouse to elect whether to exercise spousal rights, with a summary of those rights attached.

Where to get the official form

The official version of Citation to Surviving Spouse to Exercise Elective Rights is published as a PDF by the Ohio 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 Citation to Surviving Spouse to Exercise Elective Rights (PDF) →

Source: supremecourt.ohio.gov

Link last checked: November 5, 2026

How to file Citation to Surviving Spouse to Exercise Elective Rights in Ohio

  1. Step 1 — Confirm you have the correct formUse Citation to Surviving Spouse to Exercise Elective Rights (Form 8.0) when the form states it is used to cite a surviving spouse to elect whether to exercise spousal rights, with a summary of those rights attached. Double-check it's the right form for your situation — Ohio 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 Citation to Surviving Spouse to Exercise Elective Rights 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 Citation to Surviving Spouse to Exercise Elective Rights to the probate court or county clerk handling the estate — usually in the Ohio county where the deceased lived. Ask the clerk how they prefer to receive filings (in person, by mail, or e-filing).

Working through the Citation to Surviving Spouse to Exercise Elective Rights? 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 Ohio

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

Read the Ohio probate guide →

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Citation to Surviving Spouse to Exercise Elective Rights (Form 8.0)?
This form is a citation directing a surviving spouse to elect whether to exercise their rights as surviving spouse, including the right to elect against the will. You'd typically use it when the form states it is used to cite a surviving spouse to elect whether to exercise spousal rights, with a summary of those rights attached.
Where do I file Citation to Surviving Spouse to Exercise Elective Rights in Ohio?
Probate forms are filed with the probate court or county clerk in the Ohio county where the deceased person lived. Our Ohio probate guide can help you find the right courthouse, filing fees, and local requirements.
Do I need a lawyer to complete Citation to Surviving Spouse to Exercise Elective Rights?
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 Citation to Surviving Spouse to Exercise Elective Rights available online?
Most Ohio probate forms are published as PDFs by the state courts or the county clerk. You can find the official source linked above.

Other Ohio Probate Forms

Surviving Spouse, Children, Next of Kin, Legatees, and Devisees1.0Fiduciary's Account13.0Application to Disburse Attorney Decedent's Trust Account(s)13.11Entry Approving and Settling Account and Discharging13.3

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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.