Succeeding to Community Property (California Probate Code Section 13540). San Bernardino County Affidavit of Surviving Spouse Form.Fill in the blank form formatted to comply with all recording and content requirements. Before you use this form you may want to consult an attorney if you have questions concerning which document form is appropriate for your transaction. The surviving spouse files an affidavit (a statement of facts, made under oath), along with an official copy of the death certificate, at the recording office. A notary public or other officer completing this certificate verifies only the identity of the individual who signed the document to which this certificate is. Use this form to remove the name of a deceased joint tenant from a California property title. You can save and edit the form before you buy. Obtain and complete the California small estate affidavit. Those instruction pages will provide taxpayers guidance with: Information needed to complete each form section.