What to Do When Someone Dies in Arizona
Reviewed by Everendium Editorial Team · Last reviewed August 18, 2026
Quick answer
Arizona is a community property state and, having adopted the Uniform Probate Code, offers an informal probate process for many straightforward estates. Arizona also allows 'beneficiary deeds,' which let real estate transfer directly to a named beneficiary outside of probate, and the state has no separate estate or inheritance tax.
Arizona combines community property rules with an efficient probate process and a distinctive real estate planning tool.
Death certificates
Certified death certificates in Arizona are issued through the Arizona Department of Health Services Vital Records office. The funeral home typically handles ordering these on your behalf.
Community property
Arizona is a community property state — property and debt acquired during a marriage are generally treated as jointly owned by both spouses, which can affect how assets pass to a surviving spouse and shared responsibility for certain marital debts.
Beneficiary deeds
Arizona allows beneficiary deeds, letting a property owner name a beneficiary to receive real estate automatically at death, without going through probate — while the owner retains full control of the property during their lifetime. This is a popular Arizona estate planning tool, conceptually similar to Michigan’s Lady Bird deed, worth discussing with an attorney if you own property in Arizona and are planning ahead.
Informal probate
Arizona adopted the Uniform Probate Code, allowing many straightforward, uncontested estates to go through an informal probate process — generally faster than more heavily court-supervised proceedings.
No state estate or inheritance tax
Arizona does not currently have a state estate tax or inheritance tax.
Where to get help
- Arizona Department of Health Services for death certificate questions
- State Bar of Arizona for attorney referrals, including estate and probate specialists
Arizona law can change. This is general educational information, not legal advice — please consult an Arizona-licensed attorney for guidance specific to your situation.
Frequently asked questions
How do I get a death certificate in Arizona?+
The funeral home typically orders certified copies through the Arizona Department of Health Services Vital Records office on your behalf.
What does community property mean for a surviving spouse in Arizona?+
Property and debt acquired during a marriage are generally treated as jointly owned by both spouses, which can affect how assets pass and can mean some shared responsibility for certain marital debts, similar to other community property states.
What is a 'beneficiary deed' in Arizona?+
A deed that lets a property owner name a beneficiary to receive real estate automatically at death, without going through probate — while the owner retains full control of the property during their lifetime. This is a popular Arizona estate planning tool, conceptually similar to Michigan's Lady Bird deed.
Is probate simple in Arizona?+
For many straightforward, uncontested estates, yes — Arizona adopted the Uniform Probate Code, allowing an informal probate process that's generally faster than more heavily supervised proceedings.
Does Arizona have a state estate or inheritance tax?+
No — Arizona does not currently have a state estate tax or inheritance tax.
Sources
Related glossary terms
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