Check Spelling In Legal Massachusetts Small Estates Forms For Free

Even if an estate contains probate assets, you might be surprised to learn you may not need to go through a full formal probate. If the value of the decedent's estate is less than $25,000 and does not contain any real property, than a limited version of probate called Voluntary Administration may qualify.

The petitioner, or affiant, must provide detailed information about the estate, the property in question, the decedent, and any other potential heirs. This process can be used to avoid probate court in Massachusetts when the value of the estate is no greater than $25,000.

A Massachusetts small estate affidavit is a legal document used to present a claim on the estate or part of the estate of a deceased loved one.

The following assets are exempt from probate in Massachusetts: Property jointly owned with right of survivorship. Property held in tenancy by the entirety. Accounts with transfer-on-death (TOD) or payable-on-death (POD) designations. Small estates (under $20,000) Certain life insurance policies. Certain retirement accounts.

If the decedent died without a will You'll need to file: Petition for Informal Probate of Will and/or Appointment of Personal Representative (MPC 150) Surviving Spouse, Children, Heirs at Law (MPC 162) A certified copy of the death certificate.

For records of estate cases from 2009 through 2021 from any county, you can search for the record on masscourts.org. If you can't find the record you're looking for there, please contact your local Probate & Family Court.