Questions people ask
Clear answers about estate administration, Colorado probate, pricing, and what we do and don’t handle.
Are you lawyers?
No. Everguide & Co is not a law firm and we are not attorneys. We do not provide legal advice, interpret wills, advise on your legal rights, or represent anyone in court.
We handle the practical, administrative legwork: gathering documents, preparing non-legal forms at your direction, contacting banks and insurers, waiting on hold, organizing paperwork, and serving as personal representative when requested.
Do I need probate in Colorado?
Often not. If the decedent’s personal property is worth $88,000 or less (for deaths in 2026, after liens and debts) and there is no real estate in the decedent’s name alone, a Small Estate Affidavit (form JDF 999) lets you transfer assets without opening a court case.
Assets with named beneficiaries, payable-on-death (POD) designations, or joint tenancy with rights of survivorship pass outside probate automatically, regardless of dollar value.
How much does it cost?
The initial 20-minute call is completely free. After learning about your situation, we provide a transparent, flat, itemized quote based on the specific tasks you want us to handle.
You will always know the exact number before any work begins, and you are free to hand off only parts of the list and handle the rest yourself.
How many death certificates should I order?
More than you think. Most banks, insurers, county offices, and transfer agents require an original certified copy and will not return it.
Our rule of thumb: Count every bank account, vehicle, investment account, insurance policy, and piece of real estate, then add five. 10 to 15 copies is typical for an average estate.
Am I personally responsible for my deceased parent’s debts?
Generally, no. Relatives are not personally liable for a decedent’s debts simply because of family relationship. Debts are paid strictly from estate assets, in a statutory priority order set by Colorado law.
If the estate lacks sufficient funds to cover debts, remaining unsecured debts typically go unpaid. Never pay estate debts out of your personal funds before consulting a professional.
Can you help if I live outside Colorado?
Yes. A substantial portion of our clients live out of state and are managing the affairs of a parent or relative who passed away in Colorado. We handle local Colorado paperwork, county clerk visits, and administrative tasks remotely on your behalf.
What if we discover during the process that we need an attorney?
If contested claims, disputed wills, or complex litigation arise, we will inform you immediately, package all the organized records we have assembled, and help connect you with respected Colorado probate attorneys.
Have a specific question not covered here?
We are happy to answer any questions about your loved one’s estate on a free 20-minute call.