Colorado probate guide

Probate process in Colorado

Colorado uses the Uniform Probate Code with informal, formal, and supervised tracks. The court filing fee is $199 for both informal and formal probate. The small-estate affidavit (JDF 998/999) is adjusted yearly for inflation — $88,000 for decedents dying in 2026 — and is not filed with any court. Colorado recognizes the TOD beneficiary deed under C.R.S. § 15-15-401 et seq.

Colorado probate at a glance

Court
District Court (Probate Division); Denver Probate Court in Denver
Typical timeline
26–52 weeks
Filing fee
$199
Small-estate threshold
$88,000
TOD deed allowed?
Yes
Bond required by default?
No
Statute
Colo. Rev. Stat. §§ 15-10-101 et seq. (Colorado Probate Code)

Source: www.coloradojudicial.gov. Fees and thresholds change — verify with your county court before filing.

How Colorado probate works, step by step

  1. 1File application for informal probate with the District Court registrar
  2. 2Registrar appoints personal representative; letters issue
  3. 3Mail notice to heirs and devisees; publish notice to creditors
  4. 4Inventory assets, pay debts, and prepare interim accounting
  5. 5Distribute assets and close by sworn statement after one year

Probate by county in Colorado

Filing fees, court contacts, and process detail for 1 Colorado county:

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This page is informational and is not legal advice. Probate procedure varies by county and changes over time. Consult a licensed Colorado probate attorney for advice specific to your situation.