Colorado Last Will and Testament Templates (Free) [Word, PDF, ODT]

When it comes to a Colorado last will and testament, the state’s probate courts oversee the division of property and estates. The court handles estate and property divisions following the guidelines set forth by the testator, or the person who has made the will.

Contents hide

1 Colorado Last Will and Testament Template

2 Requirements for a Will to be Valid in Colorado

3 Notarized Will in Colorado

4 Cost to Create a Will in Colorado

5 FAQs

In Colorado, the last will and testament must be created by someone 18 years or older. The testator must be of sound mind and the will should be in writing for it to be valid. Colorado does not recognize or accept oral wills.

A Colorado last will and testament template may be used in the creation of a will. However, it is not required. If changes are required to the last will and testament form, Colorado requires an amendment signed in the same manner as the initial will.

Colorado Last Will and Testament Template

Word ODT PDF

Requirements for a Will to be Valid in Colorado

For a will to be valid in Colorado, the testator must follow specific guidelines:

Divide the desired property between inheritors
Choose an executor
Choose a guardian if children are present and underage
Choose a manager for your children’s property
Sign the will in front of at least two witnesses

A Colorado will is considered valid when these requirements are met. It will be handled as such by the probate court.

Notarized Will in Colorado

Colorado does not require a notary’s signature for the will to be valid. However, a notary’s signature makes the document self-proved. A self-proved will need not be proved by the probate court when the time comes. A self-proved will can be admitted to the court without witness testimony.

Cost to Create a Will in Colorado

While a free last will and testament in Colorado might be untenable, a simple Colorado will template helps the process to move forward at a reasonable price. Some attorneys charge hundreds or thousands of dollars, depending on the complexity of the content.

A testator can create their own will in Colorado. One can typically find simple resources to guide them in the process. As long as all state requirements are followed, the court must accept the will as of legal and valid.

FAQs

The witnesses should not be anyone mentioned in the will to receive a portion of the testator’s estate. Colorado expects generally competent witnesses to sign the document in the testator’s presence.

In Colorado, a testator may write their own will. The will must be signed by the testator and two witnesses to be considered.

If all legal requirements noted above are met, Colorado does not prohibit the testator from creating a handwritten will. The will need not be entirely in the testator’s handwriting for it to be considered legal and valid.

If an individual passes away without a will, Colorado intestacy laws require the distribution of property to the individual’s closest relatives, such as spouses and children.

No, there is no inheritance tax in the state of Colorado.

As long as a will is in written form and properly witnessed, Colorado will recognize the document.