Estate Planning in Arizona: A Comprehensive Guide

Legal Documents Used in Estate Planning

Estate planning in Arizona involves several critical legal documents to ensure your assets and wishes are honored. These include:

• Last Will and Testament: Specifies how your assets will be distributed.
• Living Trust: Manages assets during your lifetime and helps avoid probate.
• Durable Power of Attorney: Authorizes someone to handle financial matters on your behalf.
• Healthcare Directive: Outlines your medical treatment preferences.
• HIPAA Authorization: Grants access to your medical records for specified individuals.

Remote Online Notarization (RON) in Arizona

Arizona permits Remote Online Notarization (RON), allowing documents to be notarized online. To use RON, you must meet these requirements:

• Verify your identity through a secure video call.
• Upload the document to a state-approved RON platform.
• Complete the notarization with a licensed online notary.

This process simplifies estate planning by offering convenience and cost savings.

Guardianship Assignment

Arizona law allows parents to appoint guardians for minor children or incapacitated dependents through their estate plan. To ensure proper guardianship:

• Include the guardian’s name and relationship in your will.
• Ensure the guardian meets state eligibility requirements.
• Consult an attorney to ensure the documentation is legally sound.

Inheritance for Foreigners

Arizona allows non-residents and foreign nationals to inherit assets. However, they may be subject to:

• Federal estate taxes for non-citizens.
• Special considerations for real estate ownership.

Consult a legal expert to navigate inheritance laws and avoid potential complications.

Probate Rules and Costs

Arizona’s probate process typically involves:

• Filing a petition with the court to validate the will.
• Paying court fees, which range from $200 to $400.
• Settling debts and distributing assets.

Probate can take 6-12 months depending on the estate’s complexity. Using a living trust can help avoid probate altogether.

Legal and Professional Costs

In Arizona, estate planning attorneys typically charge:

• Wills: $500 to $1,500.
• Trusts: $1,500 to $3,000.

RON services average $25-$50 per document, providing a cost-effective alternative to in-person notarization.

Unique State Laws

Arizona allows community property agreements for married couples, simplifying the transfer of shared assets. Additionally, it provides simplified probate for small estates under $75,000 in value.

Introduction to Ethical Wills

An ethical will allows you to pass on your values and life lessons alongside material assets. With the Wills App, you can:

• Record video messages for loved ones.
• Share personal stories and wisdom.
• Schedule delivery of these messages at meaningful times.

The Wills App for Estate Planning Automation

The Wills App offers innovative features to simplify estate planning:

• Vault Storage: Securely store critical documents like wills and trusts.
• Automated Distribution: Specify recipients and trigger distributions automatically.
• Wellness Checks: Perform regular checks to ensure your plan is executed only when necessary.
• Cross-Border Functionality: Manage assets across states and countries seamlessly.

The Wills App provides peace of mind, ensuring your legacy endures for decades to come.

Practical Storage Advice

Store physical copies of your will in secure locations, such as:

• Safe deposit boxes (ensure trusted individuals have access).
• A fireproof home safe with shared access codes.
• Digitally through the Wills App for maximum security and convenience.