Yes, a Nevada Affidavit of Heirship must be notarized. This sworn statement, which identifies the heirs of a deceased person, is only legally valid if signed by the affiant (the person making the statement) and a disinterested witness in the presence of a Notary Public.
Lake Mead Mobile Notary provides expert mobile notarization for Affidavits of Heirship across Las Vegas, Henderson, and all of Clark County. Starting at $65.
The Clark County Recorder's Office will reject an Affidavit of Heirship for recording if it lacks proper notarization, which can halt the process of transferring property titles.
Disclaimer: We are not attorneys. This information is for general notarial purposes only. An Affidavit of Heirship has significant legal implications. Please consult an estate or real estate attorney for advice and to ensure this document is appropriate for your needs.
What is a Nevada Affidavit of Heirship?
A Nevada Affidavit of Heirship is a legal document used to establish the rightful heirs of a deceased person (the "decedent") when they die without a will (intestate). It is essentially a formal statement that identifies the decedent's family history—spouse, children, parents, siblings—to create a clear record of who is entitled to inherit the decedent's property under Nevada's laws of succession.
This affidavit is often used to:
Clear the title to real estate (a house or land).
Provide proof of heirship to banks or financial institutions.
Claim ownership of vehicles or other titled property.
Establish heirs for the purpose of collecting unclaimed property.
The affidavit must be signed by an "affiant"—a person who knew the decedent but has no financial interest in the estate—and typically requires at least one additional disinterested witness. Both signatures must be notarized.
📄 Download Affidavit of Heirship Form (UP-40)
Nevada State Treasurer / General Use Form
Download the standard Affidavit of Heirship form. The affiant will need to fill out the decedent's family history completely and accurately. Do not sign until you and the witness are with the notary.
⚠ The affiant and witness(es) CANNOT be heirs to the estate. They must be disinterested parties. Both must bring valid ID to the notary appointment.
This affidavit is typically used when a person dies without a will and the primary goal is to transfer title to property, especially real estate. It serves as evidence of heirship for title companies and county recorders. It does not replace a formal probate process but can sometimes be used as a simpler alternative for clearing title.
Step-by-Step Heirship Affidavit Notarization
Complete the Affidavit
The affiant fills out the form with all details about the decedent's death, marital history, and family members (spouse, children, parents, siblings). Accuracy is critical. Do not sign yet.
Identify a Disinterested Witness
Find at least one witness who knew the decedent but will not inherit anything from the estate. This person will also need to sign the affidavit.
Gather Valid IDs
Both the affiant and the witness(es) must have a valid, unexpired, government-issued photo ID (like a driver's license or passport).
Schedule a Mobile Notary Appointment
Arrange for our mobile notary to meet with the affiant and the witness at the same time and location. Everyone who is signing must be present.
Sign in the Notary's Presence
The notary will verify the identities of the affiant and witness, administer an oath or affirmation to them, and then witness them sign the affidavit.
Notary Completes Jurat and Seals Document
The notary will complete the notarial certificate (jurat) for each signature, sign the document, and affix their official notary seal.
Record the Affidavit (If for Real Estate)
If the affidavit is for real property, the original, notarized document should be recorded with the Clark County Recorder's Office to officially establish the chain of title.
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