Pennsylvania Small Estate Affidavit | Affidavit of Heirship
The state of Pennsylvania defines a small estate as one valuing $50,000 or less. Whether or not a final will and testament has gone to probate court, the family or other successors of a loved one who passed away may file an affidavit of heirship, small estate affidavit, or small estate insurance only affidavit, to have the decedent’s property and finances distributed. In Pennsylvania, a court will decide this distribution, with or without probate also being involved, with or without a will (although this generally pertains to property not listed in the will, or if there is no will), and with or without appraisal of the property, at the court’s discretion.
Affidavit of Heirship: in Pennsylvania, this affidavit covers a deceased loved one’s finances, including bank accounts, final wages and employee benefits (like retirement accounts), and patient or government benefits like welfare checks.
Small Estate Affidavit: The value of real estate property in Pennsylvania may not exceed $50,000 for direct relatives like spouses, children, and parents, or $25,000 for other successors.
Small Estate Affidavit, Insurance Only: this small estate affidavit allows successors to collect insurance payments from the decedent’s insurance company up to $11,000.