Vermont Small Estate Affidavit | Affidavit of Heirship
If a loved one lived in or owned property in Vermont, and passes away, the grieving family and other heirs may file either an affidavit of heirship or a small estate affidavit to avoid probate court. In Vermont, small estates are defined as real estate, bank accounts, and personal property valuing no more than $45,000. The decedent may not have had any debts, or the heirs must use the property to pay those expenses back. The state does allow the decedent to have had a will, but the affidavit allows loved ones to avoid long battles in probate court or pick their own executor.
Affidavit of Heirship: This affidavit in Vermont covers finances like bank accounts and final paychecks, as well as motor vehicle titles and heirlooms.
Small Estate Affidavit: if a decedent either passes without a will, or their will does not cover real estate, then successors may file the small estate affidavit in Vermont to claim land and homes owned by the decedent.