Colorado Estate Planning Forms
Choose the option that is best for you.
Colorado Personal Planning Package - Last Will, POA, Living Will, etc.
Most Popular: Our Personal Planning Package is our most popular package. Includes your Last Will, Power of Attorney, Living Will and other planning forms.
Use the Quick Order Process to receive your forms by email or the Regular Order Process to download online.
Colorado Living Trust Package
This package is for people who want to establish a Living Trust rather than a Will as the main way to transfer their property. This package will include the Living Trust Agreement, Amendment to Trust, Assignment to Trust, Notice of Assignment to Trust, Property Record and Pour Over Will.
Colorado Last Will
If you only need a Will, please use the Colorado Wills Page, or select one of the following, answer the questions and we'll email you your Will. Married with Children, Married No Children, Single, Divorced , Widow or Widower or Other Persons
Estate Planning
What is estate planning?Â
The overall planning of a person's wealth is estate planning. All of the assets owned or controlled by a decedent and the debts that were the responsibility of the decedent at the time of deceased's death are included in estate planning. Estate planning includes the preparation of a will and the planning for taxes after the individual's death. In order to meet a person's goals with respect to preparing for incapacity and death, numerous factors such as financial, estate law, insurance, investment, and tax implications must be taken into consideration..
What type of estate planning do I need?Â
Estate planning is tailored to the circumstances in each individual's situation. Usually, estate planning includes: creation of a will; limiting estate taxes by setting up trust accounts in the name of beneficiaries; appointing a guardian for living dependents; appointing an executor of the estate to oversee the terms of the will; making funeral arrangements; and establishment of annual gifting to reduce the taxable estate.
Top Questions about Colorado Estate Planning Forms
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What amount triggers probate in Colorado?
In Colorado, probate is typically necessary for estates valued at $70,000 or more, excluding certain assets. If an estate meets this threshold, the probate process must be initiated to legally manage the deceased's assets. Using Colorado Estate Planning Forms can help clarify whether you need to go through probate and provide necessary guidance for handling the estate.
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What happens if you don't probate a will in Colorado?
If you do not probate a will in Colorado, the terms of the will may not be legally recognized. This situation can lead to complications regarding asset distribution and may create conflicts among heirs. To avoid these issues, consider using Colorado Estate Planning Forms to understand your options and ensure your wishes are honored.
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How long do you have to file probate after death?
Although Colorado law suggests filing for probate within six months of death, it is advisable to do so as soon as possible. Timely filing allows for efficient distribution of the deceased's assets and reduces potential disputes among beneficiaries. Utilizing Colorado Estate Planning Forms can help ensure that all required documents are filed correctly and on time.
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How long do you have to file probate after death in Colorado?
In Colorado, you should file for probate within a reasonable time after the individual's death, typically within six months. Delaying this process could result in complications or additional issues for the estate. To simplify the probate filing process, leveraging Colorado Estate Planning Forms can be beneficial, as they guide you through necessary steps seamlessly.
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Do wills have to be filed with the court in Colorado?
In Colorado, a will must be filed with the court only after the individual has passed away. This process is a part of probate, which ensures the will is validated and its terms are honored. Many individuals use Colorado Estate Planning Forms to prepare their wills and streamline this process. This approach can help in avoiding unnecessary legal challenges.
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What is the 5 and 5 rule in estate planning?
The 5 and 5 rule refers to a provision in estate planning concerning gifts made within certain limits without incurring gift tax. Specifically, you can give up to $15,000 to individuals (or $30,000 for couples) without tax implications, provided you do not exceed $5,000 more than that per year. When considering such gifts, Colorado Estate Planning Forms can ensure compliance with tax regulations while facilitating your gifting strategy.
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What are the three main documents?
The three main documents needed for a comprehensive estate plan are the will, a durable power of attorney, and a healthcare directive. The will directs asset distribution, while the power of attorney allows someone to manage your finances, and the healthcare directive outlines your medical preferences. Colorado Estate Planning Forms can help you prepare these documents accurately.
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Can I write a will without a lawyer in Colorado?
Yes, you can write a will without a lawyer in Colorado, as long as it complies with state laws. It’s essential to ensure that the will is signed, witnessed, and dated to be considered valid. Colorado Estate Planning Forms provide templates that can guide you in creating a legally acceptable will while saving you from unnecessary legal fees.
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What are the two main components of estate planning that involve?
The two main components of estate planning are asset distribution and health care decisions. Asset distribution focuses on how your properties and possessions will be allocated, while health care decisions ensure your medical preferences are respected. By utilizing Colorado Estate Planning Forms, you can effectively address both components and clarify your wishes.
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What are the two key documents used to prepare an estate plan?
The two key documents used in preparing an estate plan are the will and the trust. A will dictates how your assets will be managed after your passing, while a trust can provide more control over your assets during your lifetime and after. Incorporating Colorado Estate Planning Forms ensures that both documents meet legal standards specific to Colorado.
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