[IL] How do I file a small estate affidavit to claim my brother's assets?

I need to file a small estate affidavit on my brother’s savings account. He died on March 15th, and the bank says this is the way I can get it.
September 11, 2025 20 7

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I need to file a small estate affidavit on my brother’s savings account. He died on March 15th, and the bank says this is the way I can get it.

I’m sorry to hear about the passing of your brother. Have you already obtained the necessary forms?

Yes, I believe so.

Do you have all the required documentation ready?

I need his death certificate.

Is there anything else the lawyer should know?

No. How do I send you a picture of the death certificate, and what happens after I file this?

Infolawyer

Hello, I’m an attorney. What state did your brother live in?

Illinois.

Infolawyer

Do you already have a form for a small estate affidavit?

I don’t have a smartphone. Is there any way I can mail the death certificate to you?

Infolawyer

You will need to complete the small estate affidavit, print it, and then attach the death certificate to the affidavit when you present it to the bank to retrieve the account (755 ILCS 5/25-1).

I don’t have a printer.

Infolawyer

You can go to your local library to print the documents. Or a local Staples/Office Depot as well.

Oh, okay. So I get the form printed and attach the death certificate, then take it to my brother’s bank?

Infolawyer

Exactly.

Okay, I will do this tomorrow.

Infolawyer

Sounds like a plan. Best wishes to you during this time.

Thank you. I need to get him a headstone.

Infolawyer

Understandable—and that’s the purpose of the small estate affidavit. Have a good day.