South Carolina Small Estate Affidavit | Form 420ES
The South Carolina Small Estate Affidavit is a straightforward document that is used to formally obtain the assets (personal belongings) of an individual that died a resident of SC. In the state, the deceased person is called the “decedent,” and the individual completing the form is known as the “successor.” So long the decedent’s total estate value is not worth more than $25,000 at the time of death, at least thirty (30) days have passed since the decedent’s death, and the form is filed correctly according to South Carolina law, the form can be used.
The form is also known as the “Affidavit for Collection of Personal Property Pursuant to Small Estate Proceeding”.
Laws: § 62-3-1201
Requirements
Maximum Estate Value: $25,000
Required Conditions: To be compliant with SC’s small estate laws, it is required that the following be true:
- A minimum of thirty (30) days has passed since the decedent’s death.
- The value of the estate is not valued at more than $25,000.
- In accordance with state law, the claiming successor is duly entitled to the estate.
- To be granted approval by the county probate judge, the judge must countersign the affidavit.
- The form is filed as per state law directions (in the county probate court where the decedent was residing at the time of their death).