Affidavit for Small Estates in Iowa

In Iowa, when someone passes away and the total value of their personal property is $50,000 or less, you may be able to use a small estate affidavit to distribute their assets to beneficiaries without going through the full probate process.  The Iowa Probate Code provides for this procedure when there is no real property or when the property was titled in joint tenancy and passes to the surviving joint tenant. 

Before being allowed to use the affidavit, Iowa law requires that at least 40 days have passed since the decedent’s death.  During this period, you can prepare the affidavit and ensure it meets the state’s requirements.  If the requirements are met, the affidavit can be used to receive insurance proceeds, payment of money, delivery of property, transfer of registered ownership, etc., all without opening a estate proceeding. 

For more information or assistance with probate administration and estate planning, contact the attorneys at Crimmins & Kehm Law Firm at 515-573-2191.