Docs to file claim in class action settlement for deceased father in NYS?

[ellentk]

My father died this past August. Since he was my dependent and had no assets I never put his estate though probate. Recently, I received a notice informing me that he stands to benefit from a class action law suit.

In order to file a claim, what status do I need to have? I thought that filing a NYS Small Estate Affidavit would be enough but a phone rep at the county surrogate court told me that would only allow me to be a beneficiary but not to file a claim, that to file a claim I'd need to fill out a "petition for a letter of administration." She directed me to an 18-page packet of forms
(Forms) to accomplish this.

The rep at the law firm handling the settlement told me I'd need some proof that I could file a claim but thought that a will and a death certificate would be enough.

Any advice will be most appreciated.

Ellen

[freelegaladvice]

You also need proof of whom you are too. The forms should have information too.