The Mecklenburg North Carolina Small Estate Affidavit for Collection of Personal Property of Decedent Intestate — Testate is a legal document that allows eligible individuals to collect and distribute the personal property of a deceased person with a small estate. This affidavit provides a simplified process for settling the estate without going through a formal probate proceeding. In Mecklenburg County, North Carolina, there are two types of Small Estate Affidavits depending on whether the decedent died intestate or testate. The term "intestate" refers to individuals who passed away without a valid will, while "testate" refers to individuals who had a will at the time of their death. Here is a detailed description of each type: 1. Mecklenburg North Carolina Small Estate Affidavit for Collection of Personal Property of Decedent Intestate: — This affidavit is applicable when the deceased person did not leave behind a will. — It is designed to assist the decedent's heirs and beneficiaries in collecting and transferring the personal property. — The affidavit can be used if the total value of the estate, excluding real property, does not exceed a certain threshold set by state law. In North Carolina, this threshold is $20,000. — The affidavit must be completed and signed by all eligible heirs and beneficiaries, affirming their relationship to the decedent and their right to collect the property. 2. Mecklenburg North Carolina Small Estate Affidavit for Collection of Personal Property of Decedent Testate: — This affidavit is used when the deceased person had a valid will. — It simplifies the process of collecting and distributing the personal property as outlined in the will, without the need for formal probate administration. — Similar to the intestate affidavit, the total value of the estate, excluding real property, should not exceed the threshold of $20,000. — The affidavit must be signed by the named executor or personal representative, affirming their authority to act on behalf of the estate and distribute the property according to the terms of the will. The Mecklenburg North Carolina Small Estate Affidavit for Collection of Personal Property of Decedent Intestate — Testate offers a convenient alternative to full probate proceedings for estates with small assets. It allows eligible individuals to navigate the legal process efficiently while ensuring the proper distribution of the decedent's personal property.