The Hidden Step: Why You Must Publish Your Extrajudicial Settlement (EJS) in the Newspaper
You’ve finally gathered all your siblings, agreed on how to divide the property, signed the Extrajudicial Settlement (EJS) before a notary public, and you're ready to head straight to the BIR. But wait! There is a major roadblock that many families completely forget about: The Newspaper Publication. If you skip this step, the Registry of Deeds will not transfer the title to your names. Here is everything you need to know about this hidden requirement so you don't waste time or get scammed. Why is a Newspaper Publication Required? When a property owner passes away and the heirs settle the estate outside of court (extrajudicially), the law wants to make sure that no hidden heirs or unknown creditors are being cheated out of their fair share. By publishing the EJS in a newspaper, you are technically giving the public a notice. It gives anyone with a legal claim against the estate a chance to step forward. The Law: Under the Rules of Court, the EJS must be published in a newsp...