An affidavit in relation to the settlement of an estate under Article 13 refers to a legal document that contains sworn statements or declarations pertaining to the distribution of assets and debts in an estate. This document is also referred to as an “Affidavit of Voluntary Administration” or “Small Estate Affidavit”. This specific affidavit is related to small estates. In order for the law to acknowledge this affidavit, the value of the entire personal property, where located, of the decedent, exclusive of joint bank accounts, trust accounts, U.S. savings bonds POD (payable on death), and jointly owned personal property, or property exempt under the EPTL §5-3.1, must not exceed $50,000. This affidavit is typically required by probate courts or other legal authorities during the settlement process.

For individuals who wish to complete this process on their own, New York State has a Small Estate Affidavit Program. The Small Estate Administration is a simplified court procedure available if the person died did not have many assets. A request is made to the Surrogate’s Court to let an individual divide and give away the decedent’s property to the people who have the legal rights to inherit. The Small Estate Affidavit Program is FREE and it will help an individual create the affidavit they will need to file in the Surrogate’s Court.

Like all affidavits, there’s a notarial section that contains an oath/affirmation. That oath must be sworn or affirmed, before a Notary Public or an individual holding the power to administer an oath. If you aren’t in court, Notary Glow can help.

Notary Glow is a travel notary service that provides notary services throughout NYC. Notary Glow is available by appointment only. I am authorized by the State of New York to perform various legal functions, including verifying the authenticity of signatures, administering oaths, and performing any other notarial acts that require signature and document stamping.

In the context of settling an estate, Notary Glow's travel notary services can be beneficial in several ways:

Convenience: As a travel notary service, I can meet you at the location of your choice. I can meet you at your home, office, or any other mutually agreed-upon location. This can save you time and effort, especially if you have mobility issues or a busy schedule.

Flexibility: Settlement of an estate often involves multiple parties, including beneficiaries, executors, and legal representatives. With travel notary services, I will travel to different locations to accommodate the needs of all parties involved, making the process more flexible and efficient.

Compliance: Affidavits related to estate settlements often require notarization to ensure their validity and enforceability. A travel notary service like Notary Glow can verify the identity of the individuals signing the affidavit, administer oaths if necessary, and provide the necessary notarial seal or stamp to authenticate the document, ensuring compliance with legal requirements.

Expertise: I am a trained and knowledgeable Notary Public. I am always in continuing education mode. I know about the proper procedures and legalities involved in notarizing documents. I will guide you through the process, answer any questions you may have, and ensure that the affidavit is properly executed, signed, and notarized. The goal is to always have you in a one & done position.

It's important to note that the specific services offered by Notary Glow (my company) or any other travel notary service provider, may vary. Please contact Notary Glow directly to inquire about my services, availability, and any fees or requirements associated with the notary services that I offer. If you know what you want and you are ready to have your documents notarized, please schedule your appointment today.