Effective September 2013, small estates in Arizona will see an increase in the value of assets that may be transferred without requiring a probate of the decedent's estate.

On April 16, 2013, Governor Jan Brewer signed into law Senate Bill 1232, which amends A.R.S. §14-3971 governing the collection of personal property, vehicles, and succession to real property by affidavit.  Therefore, decedent's estates having personal property assets such as jewelry, art, bank accounts, furniture, furnishings, vehicles, etc. valued at $75,000 or less (minus liens and encumbrances), or having real property valued at $100,000 or less (minus liens and encumbrances) will not be subject to mandatory probate.

The heir(s) of the decedent's estate may collect the personal property 30 days after the decedent's death by affidavit.  In addition, successors in interest to the decedent's real property may collect it six months after the decedent's death by affidavit.

Nevertheless, there are always exceptions as well as reasons why a probate proceeding may be needed for administering these small estates so it is best to consult with an experienced probate lawyer.