$88,000, and it goes up every year
Under C.R.S. §15-12-1201, the collection-by-affidavit threshold applies when personal property, net of liens and encumbrances, doesn't exceed a dollar limit that's indexed annually for inflation under C.R.S. §15-10-112. For deaths in 2026, that figure is $88,000 — among the more generous thresholds in the country, and one that automatically keeps pace with rising asset values rather than sitting fixed for years like many states' limits.
Just 10 days, one of the shortest waits anywhere
Once 10 days have passed since the date of death, and no personal representative application is pending or granted, the affidavit can be presented — a notably short wait compared to the 30-45 days common in many other states.
Never real estate
The affidavit reaches personal property only — bank accounts, a final paycheck, vehicles, belongings. A house titled solely in the decedent's name still needs either a probate proceeding or a beneficiary deed recorded before death; the affidavit can't move it under any circumstances.
No court, straight to the holder
This is a sworn affidavit (Form JDF 999), presented directly to whoever holds the property — a bank, employer, or similar institution — not filed with the court. A separate form (DR 2712) handles vehicle titles through the Colorado DMV specifically.
Statewide limit, 64 counties
Denver, El Paso, Arapahoe, and Jefferson County among them — the inflation-indexed threshold and 10-day wait apply identically statewide.