When someone dies, their surviving spouse (or unmarried minor children if there is no spouse) automatically gets to keep certain belongings from the estate, no matter how much those things are worth. These items include the family bible and books, one car or truck, all family clothing, household appliances, musical instruments, and all kitchen and household furniture. The spouse gets these things first; if there is no spouse, the unmarried minor children split them equally.
474.250. of or . — The surviving spouse, or unmarried minor children of a are entitled absolutely to the following property of the without regard to its value: The family bible and other books, one automobile or other passenger motor vehicle, including a pickup truck, with its means of propulsion, all wearing apparel of the family, all household electrical appliances, all household musical and other amusement instruments and all household and kitchen furniture, appliances, utensils and implements. Such property shall belong to the surviving spouse, if any, otherwise to the unmarried minor children in equal shares.
(RSMo 1939 § 106, A.L. 1955 p. 385 § 134, A.L. 1957 p. 829, A.L. 1980 S.B. 637, A.L. 1996 S.B. 494)
Effective 5-23-96
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Related Missouri laws
Share of omitted children, how determined
RSMo 474.240
One year support allowance, property in lieu thereof
RSMo 474.260
Share of omitted spouse
RSMo 474.235
Effect of failure to elect to take against will
RSMo 474.230
Exempt property applied for, when
RSMo 474.270
Waiver of right to elect
RSMo 474.220
Legal information, not legal advice. Always confirm with the official source at revisor.mo.gov.