Colorado · Probate administration

Colorado Probate Creditor Deadlines and Small-Estate Rules

Claims are barred if not presented within 4 months after first publication, or within 60 days after mailed/delivered notice for known creditors, subject to the one-year outside bar.

3 rules checked against governing sourcesSources checked through Jul 3, 2026Inspect the coverage gate

Answer first, sources attached

Three administration rules to check first

Creditor timing, notice procedure, and simplified-estate eligibility are state-specific. These source-linked rules are a starting point for the administration plan.

Claims deadline

Creditor claim period

Claims are barred if not presented within 4 months after first publication, or within 60 days after mailed/delivered notice for known creditors, subject to the one-year outside bar.

Colo. Rev. Stat. Sec. 15-12-801.

Verified Jul 3, 2026 · Next review by Jul 3, 2027

Procedure threshold

Small-estate procedure

Small-estate affidavit available for estates not exceeding the statutory small-estate amount, adjusted annually.

Colo. Rev. Stat. Sec. 15-12-1201.

Verified Jul 3, 2026 · Next review by Jul 3, 2027

Publication and service

Notice to creditors

Personal representative publishes notice to creditors at least three times, once during each of three successive calendar weeks.

Colo. Rev. Stat. Sec. 15-12-801(1).

Verified Jul 3, 2026 · Next review by Jul 3, 2027

What changes the answer

The statewide rule is the starting point

  • Date and type of appointmentLetters, qualification, and the form of administration can change the trigger.
  • Known versus unknown creditorsPublication and direct notice may create different duties and deadlines.
  • Property included in the thresholdExempt property, real estate, and nonprobate assets may be treated differently.
  • Local court procedureForms, publication practice, hearing calendars, and closing requirements can be county-specific.

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This page reports source-linked state rules and review dates. It does not calculate a deadline, determine eligibility, select a procedure, value a claim, or apply law to an individual situation. Verify the cited authority, local procedure, and current law before relying on a rule.