An affidavit of heirship is a sworn statement of a deceased person’s family history identifying the legal heirs. Title companies and institutions use it, often with a probate or small estate procedure. An affidavit of heirship is a sworn statement of a deceased person’s family history identifying the legal heirs. Title companies and institutions use it, often with a probate or small estate procedure.
Serving Michigan. Our mobile notaries serving Michigan are commissioned in Michigan and travel to your home, office, hospital, or other convenient location.
An affidavit of heirship is a sworn statement of a deceased person’s family history identifying the legal heirs. Title companies and institutions use it, often with a probate or small estate procedure.
What you'll need
Read the packet and check the receiving agency's required form.
Gather the names, dates and supporting records requested in the document.
Review the packet's signing, identification and witness instructions.
How to complete it
Who signs Someone who knew the decedent and the family well, preferably a person who is not an heir. Title companies often want two such affiants.
Complete every item (Pages 1–2) Give full names, dates, and addresses. Write "None" where an item does not apply.
Swear before a notary (Page 3) Sign under oath before the notary with a current, government-issued photo ID.
Record the original with the Register of Deeds of the county where the property is located. if it relates to real estate.
In Michigan, title companies often require a probate proceeding, a recorded affidavit, or other proof before heirs can sell inherited real estate. Ask a title company or attorney what is required.
A successor trustee uses this form to formally accept appointment as trustee of a Michigan trust, so banks and title companies can recognize their authority.
A certification of trust is a short summary that proves a trust exists and who may act for it, without revealing beneficiaries or other private terms. Banks and title companies rely on it.
Michigan lets a decedent’s successor (spouse, child, heir, or devisee) collect bank accounts, vehicles, and other personal property of a small estate with a sworn affidavit, without probate court (MCL 700.3983).
These forms are a free convenience, not legal advice. First Choice Mobile Notary & Apostille is not a law firm. Consult an attorney licensed in the relevant state for legal questions.