Do I file the small estate affidavit with the court?

PC 598 is generally presented to the person or institution holding the property. PC 556 is the separate assignment petition filed with the probate court.

Can I use it for a house?

No. PC 598 can't transfer Michigan real estate. Other options like a Lady Bird Deed or probate may apply.

Does it need to be notarized?

Yes, PC 598 must be signed in front of a notary.

Can Clear Path prepare it?

Yes. We prepare the paperwork from your information after a free review and quote. We are not a law firm and don't give legal advice.

Michigan Probate Guide

Michigan Small Estate Affidavit

A plain-English comparison of Michigan's PC 598 affidavit and PC 556 court assignment procedure.

Reviewed and updated September 30, 2026 by the Clear Path document team. Informational only — not legal advice.

Quick Answer

How does a small estate affidavit work in Michigan?

PC 598 is the Affidavit of Decedent's Successor for Delivery of Certain Assets. After the statutory waiting period, it is presented to the person or institution holding qualifying property; it is not filed as an assignment petition. PC 556 is the separate Petition and Order for Assignment filed with the probate court. Because their requirements differ and limits change annually, ask the probate register or a licensed Michigan attorney which procedure applies.

Main form

PC 598

Waiting period

28 days after death

Real estate

Not allowed with PC 598

Dollar limit

Inflation-adjusted yearly

Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. ClearPath Document Services is a document preparation service, not a law firm, and does not provide legal advice.Read full disclaimer

What PC 598 says

The person signing must be able to truthfully make every statement on the current affidavit. Clear Path does not decide successor status or shares.

No Michigan real estate in the estate
Property under the current statutory limit
More than 28 days since the death
No appointed personal representative or pending appointment or assignment request

What doesn't count toward the limit

Property that passes outside probate usually doesn't count.

Accounts with a named beneficiary or payable-on-death
Jointly owned property with survivorship
Life insurance and retirement accounts with beneficiaries
Property in a living trust

Step by step

Most families can finish this in a few weeks.

Get certified death certificates
List the probate assets and their values
Complete and sign PC 598 in front of a notary
Give the affidavit and death certificate to the bank or holder
Keep copies of everything

When to get legal guidance

Ask the probate register or a licensed Michigan attorney when there is real estate, a disagreement, uncertainty about successors or shares, a pending case, or any doubt about which procedure applies.

Frequently Asked Questions

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