Arizona
Estate law, probate process, and inheritance rules for Arizona — in plain language.
$1,500–$3,500 typical
Affidavit A.R.S. §14-3971
Community property state — spouse owns 50% of community assets automatically
Surviving spouse + descendants of marriage: spouse takes 100% of community. Different parentage: split.
- ✓Must be 18+ and of sound mind
- ✓May be required to post bond unless will waives it
- ✓Must file inventory of estate assets
- ✓Must give notice to creditors per statute
- ⏱Will filed within 2 years of death
- ⏱Notice to creditors: 4 months
- ⏱Inventory: 90 days after appointment
- ⚠Arizona has informal, formal, and supervised probate — most are informal
- ⚠Beneficiary deeds available in AZ for real estate (avoids probate)
- ⚠CP rules different from other CP states
- →Informal probate is fast and cheap if no disputes
- →Beneficiary deed for primary residence
- →Trust for larger estates
- A.R.S. Title 14 (Trusts, Estates and Protective Proceedings)
Statute references are for orientation only. Verify current text with your state legislature's website. Not legal advice — consult an attorney licensed in Arizona.
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