New Hampshire Small Estate Affidavit | Affidavit of Heirship
If a loved one lives in New Hampshire, or owns property there, and passes away without a will, the successors may avoid probate court on small estates by filing either an affidavit of heirship (personal property) or a small estate affidavit (real estate). These documents allow blood relatives, surviving spouses, or other potential successors to claim real property like bank accounts or vehicles, or real estate such as homes or land, if the value is below a certain dollar amount. Many grieving families choose to file these affidavits if possible to avoid the time and expense of hiring an attorney to go through probate court.
Affidavit of Heirship: In New Hampshire, the affidavit of heirship allows successors to claim a decedent’s real property, which includes bank accounts, debts like final paychecks, and vehicles.
Small Estate Affidavit: The small estate affidavit allows successors to claim a decedent’s real estate, which includes homes and land, as long as the value in New Hampshire does not exceed $20,000.