What to Do When Someone Dies in Arizona
When a loved one passes away in Arizona, there are important legal and financial steps to take. As a community property state, Arizona has specific rules about how marital property is divided.
Small Estate Threshold
$75,000
Probate Timeline
4-8 months
Death Certificate
$20 per copy
Order From
Arizona Department of Health Services
State Estate Tax
NoInheritance Tax
NoProperty Type
Community PropertyGet the death certificate in Arizona
In Arizona, the funeral home typically files the death certificate with the Arizona Department of Health Services. You can order certified copies from the state vital records office. Request 10-15 certified copies for banks, insurance companies, and government agencies.
Understand Arizona probate
Arizona probate typically takes 4-8 months, faster than many states due to adoption of the Uniform Probate Code. Small estates valued under $75,000 in personal property may qualify for simplified procedures.
Handle financial accounts
Gather information about bank accounts, investment accounts, and retirement funds. Contact each financial institution with a certified death certificate. As a community property state, the surviving spouse's half of marital assets doesn't go through probate.
Frequently asked questions about Arizona estates
Neighboring state guides
Estate laws vary by state. If the deceased owned property in multiple states, you may need to file in each state.
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Every situation is different. Answer a few questions and get a step-by-step plan specific to your state and circumstances.
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