Kansas Affidavit of Heirship Form: Everything You Need to Know
When a loved one dies with no will the management of the estate may be made to feel complex. However, when the estate is relatively small consisting solely of personal property, a legal alternative comes in handy, and it makes the process so much easier, the Small Estate Affidavit. The state of Kansas does not specify the format of a real estate affidavit as is done in some other jurisdictions although in many ways it is often mistaken as an affidavit of heirship. This guide runs through what you can (and can not), when you are using the affidavit, and how you can get a valid and free downloadable copy simply on this website.
What Is an Affidavit of Heirship?
In such states where it is permissible, an Affidavit of Heirship is used to allow heirs to claim real estate avoiding the probate process. Nevertheless, Kansas leaves no statutory affidavit of heirship to that effect. Instead, a Small Estate Affidavit can be presented when there is only personal property involved- but subject to conditions. It is a convenient tool when you have to make use of such items as bank accounts, cars, and certificates of deposit of a small estate.
When Can You Use the Small Estate Affidavit in Kansas?
This affidavit may be used only when:
The total value of the estate is $75,000 or less.
No real property is included.
All debts and funeral expenses have been settled.
The affiant is legally entitled to inherit the property.
This process according to the specifications outlined in K.S.A. § 59-1507b can assist the families to evade longer court proceedings within cities such as Topeka, Wichita, or Overland Park.
What Types of Assets Are Covered?
A Small Estate Affidavit can be used to claim:
Bank and savings accounts
Motor vehicles
Insurance proceeds
Certificates of deposit
Securities or stocks
Keep in mind: it cannot be used to transfer real estate. If land or a home is involved, probate proceedings or a court order will be necessary, whether you're in Lawrence or elsewhere in the state.
Can This Affidavit Be Used for Real Estate?
No. Kansas does not recognise an affidavit of heirship for transferring real estate. Any attempt to use such a document for land or property may be rejected by courts, banks, or title agencies. Even if you find generic templates online claiming to cover property ownership, they are not valid under Kansas law.
How to Get a Valid Small Estate Affidavit Form
You don’t need to search across multiple legal sites or government pages. A ready-to-use Small Estate Affidavit specific to Kansas can be downloaded for free right here on forms.legal. This form:
Includes fields for heirs, asset lists, and debt declarations
Can be notarised and submitted to the appropriate institution (bank, DMV, etc.)
Is fully compliant with Kansas state law
It does not matter where you are located in Salina, Manhattan or another town because the form is accepted to address all legal regulations throughout the state.
Benefits of Using a Small Estate Affidavit
Using this affidavit provides several advantages:
Saves time by avoiding full probate
Reduces legal costs and paperwork
Recognised by financial institutions across Kansas
Easy to use with a downloadable format and simple instructions
For small asset transfers, this is the quickest and most affordable option for heirs.
Kansas Affidavit Summary Table
Affidavit Type | Assets Covered | Value Limit | Statutory Basis |
---|---|---|---|
Small Estate Affidavit | Personal property only | Up to $75,000 | K.S.A. § 59-1507b |
Affidavit of Heirship (real estate) | Not applicable | Not allowed | Not recognized |
Important Reminders Before You File
-
Don’t use this affidavit for homes, land, or any real property.
Double-check that all estate debts and expenses are cleared.
Use the state-specific form available here on our website
Get the document notarised and submit it directly to the holding institution.
Get Your Kansas Small Estate Affidavit Form Now
If you're an heir trying to claim a relative’s personal property in Wichita, Topeka, or any Kansas City, it’s easy to start. Download your free Kansas Small Estate Affidavit form today from this website, fill it out properly, and get it notarised. It’s the legal way to move forward without probate and without confusion.