Small Estate Affidavit
Collect the bank accounts, personal property, and other assets of a deceased person without opening full probate when the estate falls under your state's small-estate dollar limit. Banks, credit unions, brokerages, and the DMV accept it from heirs and successors to release a decedent's assets directly.
Prefer to fill in by hand?
Download a blank PDF template to print and complete manually.
Download Blank TemplateSmall Estate Affidavit Affidavit — Frequently Asked Questions
How much can an estate be worth to use a small estate affidavit?
Each state sets its own small-estate limit, and the thresholds vary widely — some states cap eligibility around $50,000 while others allow considerably more. Check the current limit in the state where the deceased lived, because the affidavit is only valid if the estate's gross value falls under that state's cap.
Do I need to go to court to use a small estate affidavit?
In most states, no court appearance is required. You typically wait the state-mandated period after the death (commonly 30 to 45 days), complete and notarize the affidavit, then present it with a certified death certificate directly to the bank, DMV, or other institution holding the assets. A few states require the affidavit to be filed with the probate court first.
How do I make a small estate affidavit affidavit legally valid?
Fill in the small estate affidavit affidavit, print it, and sign it in front of a Notary Public — do not sign beforehand. Bring a valid government-issued photo ID. Notaries are available at UPS Stores, banks, law offices, courthouses, and through online notarization services, and fees typically range from $2 to $25 per signature depending on your state.
Is this small estate affidavit affidavit template free?
Yes. You can generate a completed small estate affidavit affidavit PDF or download a blank printable template completely free, with no sign-up required. Your information is used only to generate the document and is not stored after the PDF is created.