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On October 4, 2025, the Missouri legislature made significant changes to the state's wills and probate laws with the passing of a new bill aimed at streamlining the probate process and protecting the rights of beneficiaries and heirs.The bill, known as the "Probate Efficiency Act," was introduced earlier this year in response to growing concerns about lengthy and costly probate proceedings in the state. It was met with bipartisan support and was ultimately passed by a wide margin in both the House and Senate.One of the key provisions of the bill is the establishment of a new electronic filing system for probate documents. This system is designed to reduce paperwork and delays in the probate process by allowing attorneys and individuals to file documents online, rather than in person at the courthouse. This is expected to significantly expedite the handling of probate cases and save both time and money for all parties involved.Additionally, the bill includes measures to protect the rights of beneficiaries and heirs in probate proceedings. One such measure is the requirement for an inventory of the deceased person's assets to be filed within 60 days of their passing. This inventory must include a detailed list of all assets, as well as their estimated value, in order to ensure transparency and prevent any potential disputes among heirs.Another important change introduced by the bill is the clarification of the rights of surviving spouses in probate cases. Under the new law, a surviving spouse is entitled to a minimum share of the deceased person's estate, regardless of whether or not they were included in the deceased person's will. This provision is aimed at protecting the rights of spouses who may have been left out of their partner's will or who may not have been aware of the existence of a will.Overall, the Probate Efficiency Act is expected to have a positive impact on the probate process in Missouri, making it more efficient, transparent, and fair for all parties involved. The bill is set to go into effect on January 1, 2026, and will apply to all probate cases filed on or after that date.