Small Estate Affidavit
A simplified legal document that allows heirs to claim assets from a small estate without going through full probate. Each state sets its own dollar threshold for what qualifies as a small estate, ranging from $5,000 to $300,000+.
Legal Definition
A sworn statement authorized by statute that permits the collection of a decedent's assets when the total estate value falls below a specified statutory threshold, providing a simplified alternative to formal or informal probate administration.
Practical Example
Dad's estate consists of a $30,000 bank account and a $15,000 car. In a state with a $75,000 small estate threshold, his daughter can file a small estate affidavit to claim these assets in a few weeks, instead of spending months in probate.