--- title: "Utah Executor Checklist: First 30 Days | MCC Solutions" description: "Utah executor checklist: first 30 days, under $100,000 small estate limit, 30-day wait, notarized affidavit, 2 will witnesses, official court links." url: "https://mcc-solutionsnj.com/notary/utah-executor-checklist" --- Executor checklist · Utah # Utah executor and estate paperwork checklist The first 30 days, the small estate route, the will at probate, and the official pages to ask, from this state's own court and statute pages. **Quick answer.** In the first 30 days, an executor in Utah orders certified death certificates, finds the original will, secures the home, car and mail, lists what the person owned and owed, and holds off on paying debts until it's clear who has authority. For the small estate route, Utah's official pages give a limit of under $100,000, a 30-day wait after the death and a notarized affidavit; the paperwork goes to the bank or other holder. ✓ New Jersey commissioned notary, no. 50244803, insured for errors and omissions. [See the credentials](/about/credentials) **Short answer.** Utah: under $100,000 small estate limit; 30-day wait; notarized affidavit; handed to the bank or holder; 2 will witnesses; self-proving affidavit allowed. 11 of 11 state facts below are confirmed on official pages. **This is an organizer, not legal advice.** An estate attorney or the county probate/surrogate office answers questions about your situation. ## The first 30 days General steps in plain words. Tick them off as you go; the ticks stay on this screen only. - **Get several certified copies of the death certificate**The funeral home can usually order them, or the vital records office can. Each bank, insurer and pension plan may ask for its own. - **Make sure Social Security knows**Funeral homes generally report the death. If not, call 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778). A surviving spouse, or some children if there's no spouse, may get a one-time $255 payment. - **Find the original will**Look for the signed original and any codicils (later changes). Keep the original safe and unaltered; make copies for yourself. - **See whether a self-proving affidavit is attached**It's a sworn page signed by the witnesses, usually at the end of the will; the rule for this state is below. - **Keep the house and vehicles safe**Tell the insurer about the death so coverage stays in place, take photos of what's inside, and redirect the mail. - **Don't pay bills or hand out belongings yet**First learn which route fits and who is allowed to act; ask the probate office or an attorney about anything urgent. - **Stop using the person's power of attorney**A power of attorney ends at the principal's death, so an agent under it can't act for the estate. - **List what the person owned and owed**Note how each asset is held: in the person's name alone, jointly, or with a named beneficiary. Accounts with a beneficiary or joint owner usually pass outside the will. - **Compare the estate with $100,000**That's the small estate figure on this state's official page. Count only what the page says counts. - **Mark day 30 after the death**The small estate route opens 30 days after the death, per the official page. - **Open a simple money log**One line per payment or deposit, with the date, who, how much and the receipt. It makes the final accounting easy. - **When appointed, get an EIN and open an estate account**Pay estate bills from that account only. Form 1041 is due if the estate has more than $600 of gross income in a year (IRS). Sources for the federal steps: [Social Security Administration: When someone dies](https://ssa.gov/personal-record/when-someone-dies) · [IRS: Deceased taxpayers, filing the estate income tax return (Form 1041)](https://www.irs.gov/individuals/deceased-taxpayers-filing-the-estate-income-tax-return-form-1041) · power of attorney: [Power of attorney at a real estate closing](/notary/guides/power-of-attorney-at-a-real-estate-closing). ## The small estate route - #### ConfirmedSmall estate limit The entire estate under $100,000. The affidavit can't transfer real property; vehicles and boats have a separate motor vehicle affidavit."the entire value of the estate is under $100,000" Sources: [Utah State Courts: Small estates self-help](https://www.utcourts.gov/en/self-help/case-categories/probate/small-estates.html); [Utah State Courts: Small Estate Affidavit form (PDF)](https://legacy.utcourts.gov/resources/forms/probate/affidavit_personal_property.pdf); [Nolo (secondary source): Probate Shortcuts in Utah (Nolo, updated October 2024)](https://www.nolo.com/legal-encyclopedia/utah-probate-shortcuts-32099.html), checked November 2026 - #### ConfirmedReal estate Real estate isn't counted, and the affidavit doesn't transfer it; it needs its own route. Sources: [Utah State Courts: Small estates self-help](https://www.utcourts.gov/en/self-help/case-categories/probate/small-estates.html); [Utah State Courts: Small Estate Affidavit form (PDF)](https://legacy.utcourts.gov/resources/forms/probate/affidavit_personal_property.pdf); [Nolo (secondary source): Probate Shortcuts in Utah (Nolo, updated October 2024)](https://www.nolo.com/legal-encyclopedia/utah-probate-shortcuts-32099.html), checked November 2026 - #### ConfirmedWaiting period after the death 30 days. At least 30 days after the death."at least 30 days have passed since the death" Sources: [Utah State Courts: Small estates self-help](https://www.utcourts.gov/en/self-help/case-categories/probate/small-estates.html); [Utah State Courts: Small Estate Affidavit form (PDF)](https://legacy.utcourts.gov/resources/forms/probate/affidavit_personal_property.pdf); [Nolo (secondary source): Probate Shortcuts in Utah (Nolo, updated October 2024)](https://www.nolo.com/legal-encyclopedia/utah-probate-shortcuts-32099.html), checked November 2026 - #### ConfirmedNotary or oath Signed before a notary. The successor signs the affidavit in front of a notary. Sources: [Utah State Courts: Small estates self-help](https://www.utcourts.gov/en/self-help/case-categories/probate/small-estates.html); [Utah State Courts: Small Estate Affidavit form (PDF)](https://legacy.utcourts.gov/resources/forms/probate/affidavit_personal_property.pdf); [Nolo (secondary source): Probate Shortcuts in Utah (Nolo, updated October 2024)](https://www.nolo.com/legal-encyclopedia/utah-probate-shortcuts-32099.html), checked November 2026 - #### ConfirmedWhere the paperwork goes Handed to the bank or other holder. Not filed with the court; given directly to the bank or other holder. Sources: [Utah State Courts: Small estates self-help](https://www.utcourts.gov/en/self-help/case-categories/probate/small-estates.html); [Utah State Courts: Small Estate Affidavit form (PDF)](https://legacy.utcourts.gov/resources/forms/probate/affidavit_personal_property.pdf); [Nolo (secondary source): Probate Shortcuts in Utah (Nolo, updated October 2024)](https://www.nolo.com/legal-encyclopedia/utah-probate-shortcuts-32099.html), checked November 2026 - #### ConfirmedOfficial form Small Estate Affidavit. Utah State Courts form; vehicles use the DMV Survivorship Affidavit (TC-569C). Source: [Utah State Courts: Small Estate Affidavit form (PDF)](https://legacy.utcourts.gov/resources/forms/probate/affidavit_personal_property.pdf), checked November 2026 - #### ConfirmedSimplified court procedure Summary administration (Utah Code 75-3-1203): A court procedure for a personal representative when the estate, less liens and encumbrances, is no more than the homestead allowance, exempt property, family allowance, administration and funeral costs and last-illness medical expenses; no creditor notice is needed before distribution (Nolo's summary). Source: [Nolo (secondary source): Probate Shortcuts in Utah (Nolo, updated October 2024)](https://www.nolo.com/legal-encyclopedia/utah-probate-shortcuts-32099.html), checked November 2026 - #### ConfirmedWorth knowing The motor vehicle survivorship affidavit can claim up to four boats, motor vehicles, trailers or semi-trailers registered in the state. Sources: [Utah State Courts: Small estates self-help](https://www.utcourts.gov/en/self-help/case-categories/probate/small-estates.html); [Utah State Courts: Small Estate Affidavit form (PDF)](https://legacy.utcourts.gov/resources/forms/probate/affidavit_personal_property.pdf); [Nolo (secondary source): Probate Shortcuts in Utah (Nolo, updated October 2024)](https://www.nolo.com/legal-encyclopedia/utah-probate-shortcuts-32099.html), checked November 2026 ## The will at probate How the will had to be signed matters when it's offered to the court. - #### ConfirmedWitnesses the will needed Two witnesses, each signing within a reasonable time after seeing the signing or the acknowledgment."signed by at least two individuals, each of whom signed within a reasonable time after he witnessed" Sources: [Utah Code Title 75, Chapter 2, Part 5, Wills (Utah Legislature)](https://le.utah.gov/xcode/Title75/Chapter2/C75-2-P5_1800010118000101.pdf); [Utah Code Title 75, Chapter 2, Part 14, Uniform Electronic Wills Act (Utah Legislature)](https://le.utah.gov/xcode/Title75/Chapter2/C75-2-P14_2020083120200831.pdf), checked November 2026 - #### ConfirmedSelf-proving affidavit Allowed. The witnesses' affidavits are made before an officer authorized to administer oaths."each made before an officer authorized to administer oaths" Sources: [Utah Code Title 75, Chapter 2, Part 5, Wills (Utah Legislature)](https://le.utah.gov/xcode/Title75/Chapter2/C75-2-P5_1800010118000101.pdf); [Utah Code Title 75, Chapter 2, Part 14, Uniform Electronic Wills Act (Utah Legislature)](https://le.utah.gov/xcode/Title75/Chapter2/C75-2-P14_2020083120200831.pdf), checked November 2026 - #### ConfirmedIf the will is handwritten Recognized if the signature and the material parts are in the testator's handwriting."if the signature and material portions of the document are in the testator's handwriting" Sources: [Utah Code Title 75, Chapter 2, Part 5, Wills (Utah Legislature)](https://le.utah.gov/xcode/Title75/Chapter2/C75-2-P5_1800010118000101.pdf); [Utah Code Title 75, Chapter 2, Part 14, Uniform Electronic Wills Act (Utah Legislature)](https://le.utah.gov/xcode/Title75/Chapter2/C75-2-P14_2020083120200831.pdf), checked November 2026 - #### ConfirmedA witness who inherits A witness who is interested doesn't make the will or any part of it invalid."does not invalidate the will or any provision of it" Sources: [Utah Code Title 75, Chapter 2, Part 5, Wills (Utah Legislature)](https://le.utah.gov/xcode/Title75/Chapter2/C75-2-P5_1800010118000101.pdf); [Utah Code Title 75, Chapter 2, Part 14, Uniform Electronic Wills Act (Utah Legislature)](https://le.utah.gov/xcode/Title75/Chapter2/C75-2-P14_2020083120200831.pdf), checked November 2026 ## Want us to handle it? We order certified records, pick up and deliver documents, get the small estate affidavit signed and notarized, and file papers near where the estate is, in any state. We are not lawyers. **Price:** Quote-based, from $199 per job plus government and court fees at cost. Starting rates. Your exact price is quoted after we confirm a local notary/runner, before you pay. [Ask for estate paperwork help](/notary/estate-paperwork-help-out-of-state#request) ## Documents to gather - Recent bank, brokerage and retirement statements - Life insurance policies and annuities - The last few years of tax returns - Recent bills, loan and credit card statements - Pension, Social Security and benefit letters - Safe deposit box location and keys - Certified death certificates - The original will and any codicils - Deeds and mortgage statements - Vehicle titles and registrations - The official small estate form: Small Estate Affidavit ## Who to notify Pension or employer, Social Security (if the funeral home hasn't), Banks and credit unions, Brokerage and retirement accounts, Life insurance companies, Utilities and phone, Landlord or mortgage servicer, Credit card companies. A brief letter and a copy of the death certificate usually start each one; note the date and the person you reached. ## Documents needed abroad - #### ConfirmedA death certificate needed abroad Apostilles for this state's documents come from the Office of the Lieutenant Governor, Authentications. $5 per document by mail. Source: [Office of the Lieutenant Governor, Authentications](https://authentications.utah.gov/process-from-home-page/), checked November 2026 ## Where to ask An estate attorney or the county probate/surrogate office answers questions about your situation. Official pages for Utah: - [Utah State Courts: Small estates self-help](https://www.utcourts.gov/en/self-help/case-categories/probate/small-estates.html) - [Utah State Courts: Small Estate Affidavit form (PDF)](https://legacy.utcourts.gov/resources/forms/probate/affidavit_personal_property.pdf) - [Probate Shortcuts in Utah (Nolo, updated October 2024)](https://www.nolo.com/legal-encyclopedia/utah-probate-shortcuts-32099.html) Utah kit ## Utah Executor and Estate Kit This checklist as printable Word and PDF files: a start-here guide, the first 30 days, the small estate route with its official links, a documents and accounts tracker, plain notification letters (bank, utilities, Social Security), and an Excel estate ledger for assets, debts, payments and distributions. [Get the kit, $25](/toolkits/ut-executor-kit) General information, not legal, tax or financial advice. We are not lawyers, and MCC Solutions is not a law firm. An estate attorney or the county probate/surrogate office answers questions about your situation. Facts checked November 2026. ## Common questions **Is there a small estate route in Utah?** On the official pages we read: The entire estate under $100,000. The affidavit can't transfer real property; vehicles and boats have a separate motor vehicle affidavit. Handed to the bank or other holder. Not filed with the court; given directly to the bank or other holder. **How soon after the death can the Utah small estate paperwork be used?** 30 days. At least 30 days after the death. **Does the small estate paperwork in Utah need a notary?** Signed before a notary. The successor signs the affidavit in front of a notary. **Is there an official Utah form?** Small Estate Affidavit. Utah State Courts form; vehicles use the DMV Survivorship Affidavit (TC-569C). Link: https://legacy.utcourts.gov/resources/forms/probate/affidavit_personal_property.pdf **How many witnesses did a will in Utah need?** Two witnesses, each signing within a reasonable time after seeing the signing or the acknowledgment. **What about a self-proving affidavit in Utah?** Allowed. The witnesses' affidavits are made before an officer authorized to administer oaths. **Who answers questions about an estate in Utah?** An estate attorney or the county probate/surrogate office answers questions about your situation. The official pages behind this checklist: Utah State Courts: Small estates self-help. Remember the 30-day wait before the small estate route. Related: [Executor guide by state](/notary/executor-guide-by-state) · [Will signing requirements](/notary/will-signing-requirements-utah) · [Estate paperwork help](/notary/estate-paperwork-help-out-of-state) ## Family far from the estate? [See estate paperwork help](/notary/estate-paperwork-help-out-of-state)[Call (908) 444-6373](tel:+19084446373)