After a person’s death, they usually leave behind some property. Claimants who want to claim this property can use various legal means, including signing a small estate affidavit (SEA). This form is especially needed if the deceased person did not leave a will regarding sharing of the estate.
Each SEA form in the United States should contain the following information:
Build Your Document
Answer a few simple questions to make your document in minutes
Save and Print
Save progress and finish on any device, download and print anytime
Sign and Use
Your valid, lawyer-approved document is ready
People often include other details in a SEA form, such as a description of the decedent’s debts.
Rules applicable to the completion of SEA forms depend on the state where you create the document.
You may learn about the small estate affidavit provisions in Chapter 635 (Administration of Small Estates) of the Iowa Code. According to Section 635.1, you may file a SEA form if the value of the dead person’s estate does not exceed $200,000.
The Iowa Code requires a notary public agent to acknowledge the SEA form.
| Max. Estate | $50,000 |
| Min. Time to Wait After Death | 40 days |
| Filing Fee | At least $5 |
| State Laws | Iowa Code, Sections 635.1 to 635.13 |
By following our guide below, completing Iowa small estate affidavit form will be much more comfortable.
Download the Iowa Small Estate Affidavit Template
You need to find the right template. You can create and download one using our form-building software.
Note that this is a general form. There exists a document specifically for vehicle transfer, it exists.
Identify the affiant
The person completing the affidavit should write their full name and address.
Name the Decedent
Write down the decedent’s full name, date of death, and address of residency during death. Specify how the affiant is related to the decedent.
Choose the Suitable Options
You will see a list of options asking whether the decedent had a written will or not, along with other details. Choose options that suit your situation.
Every option adds the documents you need when filing the form. Read the texts carefully to avoid skipping important details.
Sign the SEA Form
After reading the statements and adding all details, put down your signature. Then, ask a notary public agent to sign the document.
Fill in the Table
You must fill in the table on the last page of the template. Here, you have to add the names of potential successors, their relationships with the decedent, and their addresses. Also, you should state if the stated heirs are dead or alive.
