So You Inherited Aunt Gertrude's Porcelain Cactus Collection (and Debt to the Cat Food Company) - How Much to Settle Up?
Ah, inheritance. A time for joy, sorrow, and maybe a touch of confusion over exactly how much paperwork is involved in claiming your rightful porcelain cat collection (looking at you, Uncle Steve). If you've recently inherited a not-so-massive estate in the Golden State, you might be wondering: how much does it cost to settle things with a small estate affidavit in California?
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| How Much Is The Small Estate Affidavit In California |
Don't Fear the Filing Fees (Too Much)
The good news is, compared to a full probate process, a small estate affidavit is the budget-friendly option. But it's not completely free. Consider it the cost of saying "hasta la vista" to probate court and hello to a slightly lighter wallet.
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Here's the not-so-secret number you've been waiting for: The filing fee for a small estate affidavit in California is currently $435. Ouch. That porcelain cactus collection better be fabulous.
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But Wait, There's More! (Except Cats... We Already Covered That)
Now, before you start raiding your piggy bank, there are a couple of things to consider:
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- County Comfort: This $435 fee is a baseline, and some counties might add their own little filing fee flourish. So, it's always best to check with your local court clerk to get the exact amount. Don't worry, they won't make you sing karaoke to get the info (unless it's a really small county).
- DIY or Hire a Helper? You can actually file the small estate affidavit yourself. The California court system offers plenty of resources and self-help guides to walk you through the process. But, if legal jargon makes your head spin faster than a cat chasing a laser pointer, consider hiring an attorney. Just be aware that legal fees will add to the overall cost.
The Bottom Line (Unless You're Wearing Platforms)
Settling a small estate in California with a small estate affidavit won't break the bank, but it'll definitely cost you a weekend's worth of lattes. The filing fee is $435, with some possible variations depending on your county. You can go the DIY route or enlist the help of an attorney, but that adds to the final cost.
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Hey, at least it's cheaper than probate court! Now, go forth and conquer that paperwork mountain (and maybe find a good home for Aunt Gertrude's porcelain cactus collection).
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