How to Make Your Assets Skip Probate in Colorado

Dan McKenzie • July 1, 2026

Many families in the Denver metro area want to ensure their loved ones are protected in the event of an emergency. One of the biggest worries we hear from parents is the length and expense of court-supervised estate administration. Fortunately, you can take steps today to secure your family's future. Learning how to make your assets skip probate in Colorado is easier than you might think, and it starts with a few simple updates to your accounts and property deeds.

Update Your Bank and Brokerage Accounts

You can turn regular accounts into non-probate assets by talking directly with your financial institutions. For bank accounts, you can request a "payable on death" designation. This allows you to name a beneficiary who will receive the funds upon your death. For brokerage accounts, most firms offer a similar "transfer on death" designation. Both options allow your money to go straight to your children or spouse without waiting on a judge or going through a complex legal process.

Use a Beneficiary Deed for Real Estate

Your home is likely your largest investment, but it doesn't have to get tangled up in court. In Colorado, a special tool called a beneficiary deed allows you to name who inherits your property automatically when you pass away. This keeps your home entirely out of probate. Even better, this deed is completely flexible. If your plans change down the road—perhaps as your kids grow from teenagers into young professionals—you can easily revoke or change them.

Keep it Simple for Your Family

Taking these steps ensures that your family can avoid the stress of court involvement during an already difficult time. When you use a designation like a beneficiary deed, your named loved ones only need to file a simple affidavit—a written statement sworn to—along with a death certificate to transfer the property smoothly.

estate planning checklist → estate planning process

Taking the time to coordinate your accounts and real estate properly means your hard-earned wealth transfers directly to the people who matter most.

Secure Your Legacy Today

A comprehensive plan does more than just distribute property; it provides complete peace of mind while you enjoy life, whether you are hiking in the foothills or spending time with family. If you want to make sure your financial plan is fully optimized, we are here to help. We invite you to schedule a consultation with The McKenzie Law Firm, LLC today. Give us a call at 720-821-7604 to discuss how to skip probate with your assets in Colorado and build a plan that protects your family across the Denver metro area.

The McKenzie Law Firm, LLC practices law exclusively in Colorado. This post is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Please consult a qualified attorney regarding your specific situation.

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What Happens to a Bank Account When Someone Dies in Colorado?

By Dan McKenzie • September 15, 2026

Losing a loved one is overwhelming, and many families are surprised to learn that financial matters can freeze instantly after a passing. When a person dies, their legal financial identity stops immediately. This means they can no longer hold property, sign agreements, or authorize payments. Even if you hold a power of attorney—a legal document allowing you to make decisions on someone’s behalf while they are alive—that authority ends the moment they pass away. Families across the Denver metro area are often caught off guard when trying to access funds to pay for immediate expenses.