When someone dies, some people aspire to take over their property. A Colorado small estate affidavit form (SEA) lets such people legally state their intentions without the lengthy probate cases. The document is extremely useful, especially if the deceased person did not leave any paper stating their will.
Every state has its rules for creating a small estate affidavit. Usually, the terms set for heirs to submit this form vary from state to state. In general, such an affidavit consists of:
And other significant details. Sometimes, the signatories have to include the dead person’s debts in the SEA form.
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Another name for the Colorado SEA form is the “Collection of Personal Property by Affidavit” form. To understand which rules to follow when completing the Colorado SEA form, consult the relevant sections of the Colorado Revised Statutes. Title 15, Article 12, Part 12 describes most of these terms and requirements.
Section 15-12-1201 directs that successors may create and submit a SEA form in no less than ten days from the day the deceased person passes on. A SEA form is applicable only for property items whose value is no more than 70,000 US dollars.
You are required to notarize a SEA form in Colorado to make it valid.
| Max. Estate | Twice the amount set forth in Sec. 15-11-403, as adjusted by Sec. 15-10-112 |
| Min. Time to Wait After Death | 10 days |
| Filing Fee | $83 |
| State Laws | Colorado Revised Statutes, Sections 15-12-1201 to 15-12-1205 |
If you want to avoid any uncertainties and successfully create and fill out the Colorado small estate affidavit form, follow our guidelines below.
To create a small estate affidavit in Colorado, you should find the relevant template. Using our form-building software speeds up the process and guarantees success.
Keep in mind that there also exists a similar form for vehicles. Here, we explain the steps for completing the general SEA form. Be extra careful when choosing the template.
The first thing you will see in the form’s text is a notice that signatories should read the document carefully.
The one who signs the document (the affiant) should insert their name to the relevant blank line. In Colorado, the affiant should be 18 years old and above.
Then, insert the name of the dead person. By adding the decedent’s name, you also confirm that ten days have passed since they passed away.
Ensure that the total value of the property does not exceed 70,000 US dollars. If the decedent died before 2020, the conditions differ. You may check the information in the SEA form.
In the primary chart, name every successor. Describe each item and indicate its value. Below that, you may also add people that may get the property on behalf of successors.
Having appointed the successors, you should sign the form and add the current date. Write your name twice in the relevant lines.
In Colorado, you have to give a SEA form to a notary to get an acknowledgment.
