In general, when someone dies, the estate must go through probate which can be a complicated and lengthy process. But many states provide less complicated options for smaller estates.

New York law provides for simplified probate when the value of the personal property of the decedent less property exempt for family benefit does not exceed $20,000 (effective 1/1/09 this amount will be $30,000).  The voluntary administrator may file an affidavit with the court.