Affidavit of Heirship

Legacywyse gives you everything a first-time executor needs: the recommended probate process for your situation, realistic costs and timelines, and pre-filled court documents — including the affidavit of heirship.

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Direct answer

Used when there's no will. Two people who knew the family but don't stand to inherit swear under oath who the legal heirs are. Most commonly used to put a house or land into the heirs' names.

Where to file

Filed with the county clerk, not the probate court.

Signatures

Affiant, Disinterested witness #1 and Disinterested witness #2 sign.

Notarization

Every signer signs before a notary. Legacywyse plans include virtual notary sessions for supported counties.

What's in the document

Legacywyse fills in from your answers

  • Decedent full name
  • Date of death
  • Last residence
  • County
  • Surviving spouse
  • Has children

You complete

  • Family history / distribution narrative
  • Real property / title notes

Recording fees by county

The affidavit is recorded with the county clerk's Real Property Records. Fees come from each clerk's published schedule and change over time, so re-verify before recording.

CountyFirst pageEach added pageClerk
Dallas County$26$4Dallas County Clerk
Tarrant County$26$4Tarrant County Clerk
Collin County$26$4Collin County Clerk
Denton County$26$4Denton County Clerk
Harris County$18$4Harris County Clerk
Travis County$26$4Travis County Clerk
Bexar County$26$4Bexar County Clerk

Common questions

Where does the Affidavit of Heirship go?

Filed with the county clerk, not the probate court.

Who signs the Affidavit of Heirship?

Affiant, Disinterested witness #1 and Disinterested witness #2 sign. Every signer signs before a notary.

Which Texas probate paths use this document?

It belongs to the affidavit of heirship path.

Does Legacywyse prepare this document?

Yes. Legacywyse generates it from your questionnaire answers inside the private workspace, with the county details filled in. You review it, sign where required, and file it. Legacywyse is not a law firm, and this page is general information, not legal advice.

Review note

Updated July 7, 2026. Legacywyse links to Texas court, statute, tax, and county sources when a guide discusses filing, authority, taxes, or local probate process. The content is general information, not legal advice.

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