What to Do When Someone Dies in Colorado
Reviewed by Everendium Editorial Team · Last reviewed August 18, 2026
Quick answer
Colorado adopted the Uniform Probate Code, allowing an informal probate process for many straightforward estates, and offers a small estate affidavit for smaller estates. Colorado also permits beneficiary deeds, letting real estate transfer directly to a named beneficiary outside of probate, and has no state estate or inheritance tax.
Colorado offers a relatively efficient probate process along with useful advance-planning tools for real estate.
Death certificates
Certified death certificates in Colorado are issued through the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment Vital Records office. The funeral home typically handles ordering these on your behalf.
Informal probate
Colorado adopted the Uniform Probate Code, allowing many uncontested estates with a valid will to go through an informal probate process — generally faster and less involved than more heavily court-supervised proceedings.
Beneficiary deeds
Colorado permits beneficiary deeds, letting a property owner name a beneficiary to receive real estate automatically at death, without going through probate, while retaining full control of the property during their lifetime. This is a useful advance-planning tool, similar to options available in Michigan and Arizona.
Small estate affidavit
Colorado offers a small estate affidavit for qualifying smaller estates, allowing assets to be collected without full formal probate administration.
No state estate or inheritance tax
Colorado does not currently have a state estate tax or inheritance tax.
Where to get help
- Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment for death certificate questions
- Colorado Bar Association for attorney referrals, including estate and probate specialists
Colorado law can change. This is general educational information, not legal advice — please consult a Colorado-licensed attorney for guidance specific to your situation.
Frequently asked questions
How do I get a death certificate in Colorado?+
The funeral home typically orders certified copies through the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment Vital Records office on your behalf.
Is probate simple in Colorado?+
For many uncontested estates with a valid will, yes — Colorado adopted the Uniform Probate Code, allowing an informal probate process that's generally faster than more heavily court-supervised proceedings.
What is a beneficiary deed in Colorado?+
A deed letting a property owner name a beneficiary to receive real estate automatically at death, without going through probate, while retaining full control of the property during their lifetime — similar to tools available in states like Michigan and Arizona.
Does Colorado have a state estate or inheritance tax?+
No — Colorado does not currently have a state estate tax or inheritance tax.
Sources
Related glossary terms
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