What to do when someone dies in New Mexico

New Mexico is a community property state, meaning your spouse automatically owns half of property acquired during the marriage. The state has no estate tax, which simplifies the financial picture. Probate runs through District Court.

What this guide covers

How probate works in this state
Estate and inheritance taxes
Surviving spouse rights and protections
Small estate shortcuts and affidavit thresholds
Step-by-step checklist for your family

Order walks your family through every task — from filing the will with the court to closing the final accounts. Use it to stay organized, assign tasks to family members, and make sure nothing gets missed.