The Missouri Certificate of Heir is a legal document that allows individuals to obtain the transfer of title to a motor vehicle without going through the probate process. This certificate becomes relevant when a vehicle has not been specifically bequeathed in a will. This article aims to provide a detailed description of the Missouri Certificate of Heir and the different types that exist. In Missouri, when a person passes away and has a motor vehicle that was not mentioned in their will, it can create complications for transferring the vehicle's title to the rightful heir. To resolve this issue, the Missouri Certificate of Heir is employed to establish the proper heir and guide the transfer process. The Certificate of Heir serves as legal proof that an individual is entitled to inherit the deceased person's vehicle. It is a critical document required by the Missouri Department of Revenue to transfer the title without probate. There are two types of Missouri Certificate of Heir forms commonly used to obtain the transfer of title to a motor vehicle without probate: 1. Affidavit for Transfer of Decedent's Motor Vehicle: This certificate is used when the deceased person did not leave a will or had only a personal property memorandum, which does not include the vehicle. The Affidavit for Transfer of Decedent's Motor Vehicle form must be completed by the rightful heir(s) and notarized. It requires information such as the decedent's name, date of death, vehicle details, and the relationship between the heir(s) and the deceased. 2. Affidavit for Transfer of Decedent's Motor Vehicle — Small Estate: This form is used when the estate of the deceased person qualifies as a "small estate," as defined by Missouri law. To qualify, the total value of the estate, including the vehicle, must be $40,000 or less. This affidavit simplifies the process for heirs when the estate falls within the small estate guidelines. To obtain the Missouri Certificate of Heir, interested parties must contact the local Probate Division of the Circuit Court or the Missouri Department of Revenue. The appropriate form must be completed accurately, notarized, and submitted along with any supporting documentation requested by the authorities. By utilizing the Missouri Certificate of Heir, individuals can navigate the transfer of a motor vehicle's title without probate, ensuring a smooth and lawful process.