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Make edits, fill in missing information, and update formatting in US Legal Forms—just like you would in MS Word.

Download a copy, print it, send it by email, or mail it via USPS—whatever works best for your next step.

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If this form requires notarization, complete it online through a secure video call—no need to meet a notary in person or wait for an appointment.

We protect your documents and personal data by following strict security and privacy standards.
In Texas, if an estate's value exceeds $75,000, it generally must go through probate because the law aims to ensure that significant assets are appropriately managed and distributed under court supervision. The reason an estate over $75,000 must go through probate is to protect the rights of heirs and creditors.
Under Texas law, the paperwork to begin a probate, which includes applications and the will, must be filed in court within four years after the testator died.
An estate may be exempt from the probate process in certain circumstances. Under Texas Estates Code, Title 2, Chapter 205, an estate need not pass through the probate process if there is no will and the total value of the estate (not counting any homestead real estate owned by the Decedent) is $75,000 or less.
In the Real Property Department of the Harris County Clerk's Office. The documents may be filed in person or by mail. If filing in person, a photo I.D. is required.
Ordinarily, an application to probate a will must be filed within four (4) years of the date of death of the decedent. Also, under normal circumstances, letters testamentary or letters of administration cannot be authorized more than four (4) years after the date of death of the decedent.
Without the legal validation of the will through probate, there is no official recognition of their right to inherit. Non-probated wills have no legal effect in Texas. This means that even if someone is named as a beneficiary in the will, they have no legal claim to the assets without going through the probate process.
How is an executor appointed? The person who wants to serve as an executor (or an administrator) must apply with the court for letters testamentary (or letters of administration). Even if the will nominates an executor, they must still apply and go through the approval process.
Probate, General Forms Affidavit Template for After Four Years (PDF) Affidavit Template for Copy of Will (PDF) Agreement as to the Advisability of Independent Administration (DOCX) Complete Small Estate Affidavit (PDF) Exhibit List (PDF) Motion and Order for Release of Funds from Registry (PDF)
The affidavit of heirship is used when the decedent had no unpaid debts and there was no other requirement that probate be filed. It is often used when there is a third party who requires the affidavit before transacting business with the heir as owner of the property.
Once the affidavit has been recorded, the heirs are identified in the property records as the new owners of the property. Thereafter, the heir or heirs may transfer or sell the property if they choose to do so. At that point, the deed most commonly used to transfer the property is a General Warranty Deed.