You may view your tax information online or request a copy of the bill by emailing DTARCD@fairfaxcounty or calling 703-222-8234, TTY 711.
A Virginia small estate affidavit may expedite a probate process for an estate worth less than $50,000 (excluding real estate). The form may not be used until at least 60 days have passed since the decedent's death date.
§ 64.2-600. "Small asset" means any indebtedness owed to or any asset belonging or presently distributable to the decedent, other than real property, having a value, on the date of the decedent's death, of no more than $50,000.
Note: Virginia does not issue “letters testamentary”. A qualification certificate stamped with the seal of the Court is issued showing that an executor or administrator has been qualified, posted bond and has authority to act on behalf of the estate.
In Virginia, an estate will need to be probated when a person dies with property valued at more than $50,000. So, to avoid probate, you must either have a very small estate or take steps to ensure that your assets transfer automatically to beneficiaries.
The Virginia Small Estate Affidavit is a legal document used for managing estates valued at $50,000 or less. It expedites the distribution of small estates and allows direct transition of assets without formal probate.
An affidavit must be made voluntarily by the affiant or deponent to be valid. It must also be made under oath or affirmation administered by a person authorized to do so by law. In addition, the affidavit must contain the following information: The name, address, and telephone number of the affiant or deponent.
One way is to execute and fund a trust. If all of your assets are in a trust, they will pass through your trust instead of undergoing the probate process. Another way to avoid probate is to add beneficiary designations or “transfer on death” or “payable on death” designations on your bank accounts and other assets.
In Virginia, any estate valued at greater than $50,000 at the time of the owner's passing must go through the probate procedure.