Probate can be a real headache. It’s not only time-consuming and expensive, but it also pulls family matters into the public eye when you’d rather keep things private. Fortunately, Tennessee offers a simpler way to handle smaller estates without the hassle of full probate: the Small Estate Affidavit.

At Foust & Foust, we understand that dealing with probate can feel overwhelming. That’s why we’re here to provide compassionate guidance through every step of the process. Let’s break down how the Small Estate Affidavit works and how it might be a good option for you or your family.

What Is a Small Estate Affidavit?

A Small Estate Affidavit is a tool that lets someone transfer the property of a deceased person without going through the full probate process. Think of it as a shortcut to avoid probate when the estate is relatively small. In Tennessee, if someone passes away with a limited amount of personal property, their heirs can use a Small Estate Affidavit to claim these assets instead of opening a lengthy probate case.

In Tennessee, the current dollar limit for using a Small Estate Affidavit is $50,000. It’s important to note that this value only applies to personal property—real estate is not included.

Who Can Use a Small Estate Affidavit in Tennessee?

Not everyone can use a Small Estate Affidavit, and there are some eligibility requirements to keep in mind:

  • The total value of the deceased person’s personal probate estate must be under $50,000 (excluding real estate).
  • At least 45 days must have passed since the person’s death.
  • There must be no will appointing an executor, or if there is a will, no executor should have been appointed.
  • There should be no pending petitions for appointing a personal representative.
  • Probate proceedings must not have already started.

If you’re unsure whether you meet these requirements, feel free to reach out to Foust & Foust. We’re here to help you determine your eligibility and understand your options.

Benefits of Using a Small Estate Affidavit

Opting for a Small Estate Affidavit instead of traditional probate comes with several advantages:

  • Cost-Effective: You save money by avoiding probate court fees and attorney costs.
  • Time-Saving: The probate process can be long, but a Small Estate Affidavit is much faster.
  • Simplified Process: There’s a lot less paperwork and fewer steps involved.
  • Privacy: Unlike probate, which makes a lot of information public, a Small Estate Affidavit keeps family affairs more private.

How to Complete a Small Estate Affidavit in Tennessee

Filing a Small Estate Affidavit can seem daunting, but it’s fairly straightforward when broken down into steps. Here’s how you do it:

  1. Gather Necessary Information: You’ll need details about the deceased person, their assets, heirs, and any creditors.
  2. Obtain a Certified Copy of the Death Certificate: This is essential for moving forward.
  3. Include the Will, If There Is One: If the deceased left a will, you need to attach the original copy with the affidavit.
  4. Collect Proof of Asset Values: This could include bank statements, vehicle appraisals, or anything that verifies the value of the deceased’s property.
  5. Complete the Affidavit: In Tennessee, the form is officially called the “Petition for Limited Letters of Administration of a Small Estate.”
  6. Have the Affidavit Notarized: A notary must sign off on the affidavit.
  7. File the Affidavit with the Probate Court: This should be done in the county where the deceased person last lived.

Make sure you’ve waited at least 45 days since the death occurred before filing. If you’re feeling unsure or overwhelmed by the paperwork, Foust & Foust offers assistance in preparing and filing these forms. We even provide a downloadable checklist to help you gather everything you need.

When a Small Estate Affidavit Might Not Be Suitable

There are situations where a Small Estate Affidavit might not be the right choice. Here are some common reasons why it wouldn’t apply:

  • The estate’s total value exceeds the $50,000 limit.
  • The deceased person had a will that appointed an executor.
  • There are disputes among heirs or creditors that complicate the situation.
  • The estate has significant debts or includes complex assets.
  • The estate involves real estate.

If a Small Estate Affidavit doesn’t work for your situation, there are other options available, such as formal probate or different estate planning tools. We’d be happy to discuss your options and guide you through the right process.

Simply Probate with an Affidavit

The Small Estate Affidavit can be a great way to sidestep the challenges of full probate for smaller estates. It’s quicker, less costly, and keeps personal matters private. However, every situation is unique, and it’s important to make sure you’re taking the right steps for your family.At Foust & Foust, we’re committed to helping you make informed decisions that protect your loved ones and their legacy. Don’t go through these matters alone—reach out to us today at 865-203-4041 for a consultation. Let’s take the first step towards securing your family’s future.