Step-by-Step Guide to Fill Out Small Estate Administration Form (NY Surrogate’s Court)

1. Access the Form:
   https://ww2.nycourts.gov/forms/surrogates/smallestate.shtml
   Download the small estate administration form from the official website of the New York Surrogate’s Court or obtain a copy from the court clerk.
2. Introduction and Identification:
   ↪ Provide your name, address, and contact information in the designated fields.
   ↪ Identify the decedent by entering their name, date of death, and address.
3. Appointment of Voluntary Administrator:
   ↪ Specify your relationship to the decedent and your interest in the estate.
   ↪ Include your acknowledgment that you are voluntarily assuming the responsibilities of the administrator.
4. Nomination of Distributees:
   ↪ List the names and addresses of individuals entitled to share in the decedent’s estate according to New York intestacy laws.
   ↪ Include their relationship to the decedent.
5. Statement of Value:
   ↪ Estimate the gross value of the decedent’s personal property.
   ↪ Include a breakdown of the estimated value of each category (e.g., bank accounts, personal property, etc.).
6. Disposition of the Estate:
   ↪ Specify how the estate assets will be distributed among the distributees.
   ↪ Clarify any debts or expenses that will be paid from the estate assets.
7. Signatures and Verification:
   ↪ Sign and date the form in the presence of a notary public.
   ↪ The notary public will verify your identity and witness your signature.
8. Submit the Form to the Surrogate’s Court:
   ↪ Make copies of the completed form for your records.
   ↪ File the original form with the Surrogate’s Court in the county where the decedent resided at the time of their death together with the original death certificate for the decedent.
9. Notification to Distributees (if applicable):
   ↪ Notify distributees of your appointment as voluntary administrator and the planned distribution of estate assets.
10. Complete Additional Court Requirements (if applicable)
    ↪ Fulfill any additional requirements set forth by the Surrogate’s Court, which may include filing additional documents or attending a hearing.

Always check for any specific instructions or additional forms required by the New York Surrogate’s Court. Consulting with a legal professional is advisable to ensure compliance with all legal requirements and to address any unique aspects of your situation. If you need help, call us!