Union County Probate Guide: Courts, Fees & Process (2026)

Overview

Union County is a fast-growing county south of Charlotte in the Charlotte metro area, with Monroe as its county seat. The Clerk of Superior Court handles all estate matters in Union County.

As a suburban county with a growing population, Union County processes an increasing number of estate filings each year. Standard NC probate pathways apply: common form and solemn form probate, administration, and Collection by Affidavit for qualifying small estates.

This guide provides an informational overview of the Union County probate process. It is not legal advice. Verify current requirements with the Clerk or a qualified attorney.

Courthouse Information

Union County Clerk of Superior Court — Estate Division

Address: 400 North Main Street, Monroe, NC 28112

Phone: (704) 698-3100

Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Walk-in filings accepted during business hours.

Parking and Access

Free parking is available near the courthouse in downtown Monroe.

Filing Process

Step 1: Choose Filing Path

Common Form Probate (AOC-E-201): File will without hearing.
Solemn Form (AOC-E-304): Notice and hearing, immediately final.
Administration (AOC-E-201): For intestate estates.
Collection by Affidavit (AOC-E-203B): For estates under $20,000/$30,000.

Step 2: Prepare and File

Bring original will, death certificate, AOC form, heir list, and filing fee.

Step 3: Publish and Administer

Publish Notice to Creditors for four weeks, file inventory, pay claims, distribute assets, file Final Account.

Local Requirements

Union County-Specific Procedures

Original wills required.
Bond required unless waived.
Publication in The Enquirer-Journal or other Union County newspaper.
Inventory due within 90 days.
Year's Allowance: $60,000 (AOC-E-100).

Timeline & Fees

Filing Fees

Probate / Administration: approximately $120
Certified copies: approximately $5
Publication: $50-$100
Bond premium: varies

Estimated Timelines

Simple estates: 6-9 months
Average estates: 9-15 months
Complex estates: 18 months to several years

Local Resources

Union County Resources

Union County Clerk: unioncountync.gov
NC AOC Forms: nccourts.gov/documents/forms

Legal Aid

Legal Aid of North Carolina: (866) 219-5262
NC State Bar: ncbar.gov

Publication

The Enquirer-Journal: Used for legal notices in Union County

Frequently Asked Questions

Where do I file for probate in Union County?

Estate filings are made with the Union County Clerk of Superior Court at 400 North Main Street, Monroe, NC 28112. Call (704) 698-3100 for questions.

How much does probate cost in Union County?

The filing fee is approximately $120. Publication adds $50-$100. Total initial costs typically range from $200 to $350.

How long does probate take in Union County?

Simple estates: 6-9 months. Average estates: 9-15 months. Complex estates: 18+ months.

Can I use a small estate affidavit in Union County?

Yes. Collection by Affidavit is available for personal property estates under $20,000 ($30,000 if the surviving spouse is sole heir). Wait 30 days after death.

Do I need an attorney for probate in Union County?

An attorney is not required but may be helpful for estates with real property or disputes. Contact Legal Aid of NC at (866) 219-5262 or the NC State Bar at ncbar.gov for referrals.

Probate in Union County, North Carolina: 2026 Guide