Vermont Small Estate Affidavit Form

Vermont Small Estate Affidavit Form

Downloads: 470
Last updated April 3rd, 2026

A Vermont small estate affidavit allows the named executor or administrator to a decedent’s estate to expedite the probate process. Referred to as a “Petition to Open Small Estate,” the form is used for estates with a total value of $45,000 or less and that do not contain real property (other than time-share estates).

A Vermont small estate affidavit allows the named executor or administrator to a decedent’s estate to expedite the probate process. Referred to as a “Petition to Open Small Estate,” the form is used for estates with a total value of $45,000 or less and that do not contain real property (other than time-share estates).

Laws

  • Maximum Estate Value: $45,000[1]
  • Mandatory Waiting Period: Not mentioned in state statutes.
  • Where to File: Probate Court

How to File (4 Steps)

Step 1 – Check Qualifications

The Petition to Open Small Estate can be filed if the estate’s value does not exceed $45,000 and does not include real property (except for a time-share estate).[2]

Step 3 – File Documents

The completed documents must be filed with the probate court, along with the will and death certificate.[4] If any successors did not consent to the Petition, the petitioner must provide them with a copy and include a Certificate of Service (Form 600-00264) with the filing.[5]

Step 4 – Distribute and Submit Report

After filing, the petitioner is appointed as the fiduciary and given letters of administration.[6] They must then collect and distribute the estate assets and settle expenses and debts.[7] Once completed, the fiduciary must submit a Receipt (Form 700-00153) and Report of Fiduciary (Form 700-00055) to the court.[8]