Affidavit for Collection of Small Estate (testate)

This page is for educational purposes only and is not legal advice. Forms and requirements change frequently — verify the current version with your local probate court or an attorney.

Last updated: June 27, 2026

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About Affidavit for Collection of Small Estate (testate)

Allows a distributee or named personal representative to collect a small estate (not exceeding $40,000) without full probate administration by presenting an affidavit and the decedent's will to the court.

When you'd use it: When a testate decedent's estate is $40,000 or less, at least 30 days have passed since death, and no application for letters testamentary or administration is pending or has been granted.

Where to get the official form

The official version of Affidavit for Collection of Small Estate (testate) is published as a PDF by the Missouri courts. We checked this link and it resolved to a form on an official court or government website — always download the current version directly from the source rather than a third-party copy:

Verified official PDF

Download Affidavit for Collection of Small Estate (testate) (PDF) →

Source: stlcitycircuitcourt.com

Link last checked: June 27, 2026

How to file Affidavit for Collection of Small Estate (testate) in Missouri

  1. Step 1 — Confirm you have the correct formUse Affidavit for Collection of Small Estate (testate) when when a testate decedent's estate is $40,000 or less, at least 30 days have passed since death, and no application for letters testamentary or administration is pending or has been granted. Double-check it's the right form for your situation — Missouri probate forms are revised periodically, so verify the name and number against your court's current form list before you start.
  2. Step 2 — Complete every required fieldFill out Affidavit for Collection of Small Estate (testate) carefully and review it for errors before filing. Probate cases can already take months — a small mistake on the form can set your timeline back further.
  3. Step 3 — Get it notarized or witnessed if requiredSome probate forms must be signed in front of a notary or witnesses. Check the instructions on the form itself, and arrange notarization before you file if it's required.
  4. Step 4 — File it with the correct courtSubmit Affidavit for Collection of Small Estate (testate) to the probate court or county clerk handling the estate — usually in the Missouri county where the deceased lived. Ask the clerk how they prefer to receive filings (in person, by mail, or e-filing).

Working through the Affidavit for Collection of Small Estate (testate)? SwiftProbate builds a personalized, step-by-step checklist for settling the estate — so you know which forms to file, in what order, and by when.

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Probate in Missouri

See the full Missouri probate guide for filing deadlines, small-estate options, timelines, costs, and county courthouse details.

Read the Missouri probate guide →

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Affidavit for Collection of Small Estate (testate)?
Allows a distributee or named personal representative to collect a small estate (not exceeding $40,000) without full probate administration by presenting an affidavit and the decedent's will to the court. You'd typically use it when when a testate decedent's estate is $40,000 or less, at least 30 days have passed since death, and no application for letters testamentary or administration is pending or has been granted.
Where do I file Affidavit for Collection of Small Estate (testate) in Missouri?
Probate forms are filed with the probate court or county clerk in the Missouri county where the deceased person lived. Our Missouri probate guide can help you find the right courthouse, filing fees, and local requirements.
Do I need a lawyer to complete Affidavit for Collection of Small Estate (testate)?
Many people complete probate forms themselves, especially for smaller or uncontested estates. Complex estates may benefit from professional advice. SwiftProbate is an informational tool that helps you understand and organize the process — it is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice.
Is Affidavit for Collection of Small Estate (testate) available online?
Most Missouri probate forms are published as PDFs by the state courts or the county clerk. You can find the official source linked above.

Other Missouri Probate Forms

Application for Letters of AdministrationCorporate Surety Bond (Small Estate)Claim Against EstateBond for Creditor Refusal of Letters

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Disclaimer: This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Probate forms and requirements vary by state, county, and individual circumstances, and change over time. Always verify the current form and instructions with your local probate court, and consult a qualified attorney for advice specific to your situation. SwiftProbate is not a law firm and does not provide legal representation.