Advance Directive Form

Arizona’s Advanced Directive form lets an individual choose a representative to make health care decisions on their behalf. The form includes specific instructions for the attorney regarding the mental and physical health of an individual and a living will. The form must be signed by an individual themselves, a witness, and the proxy.

How to Order a Death Certificate

The following people have the right to request a death certificate in Arizona:

• Spouse of the deceased
• Parents of the deceased
• An attorney representing an estate or a family member
• Third-party
• Private investigators

The person requesting a death certificate must be over 18 years of age. A certified copy of a document proving their relationship to the defendant is required.

The death certificate application must include the following information:

• Name of the deceased
• Sex of the deceased
• Social security number of the deceased
• Place and date of death
• If the death certificate will be used for any type of US government claims, a list of claims is required
• Applicant’s name
• Applicant’s e-mail and home address
• Applicant’s relationship to the deceased
• Purpose of request
• Applicant’s phone number

The cost of a certificate and one certified copy ranges from $14.00 to $20.00 depending on the state health department. Fees are non-refundable. Cash is accepted.

The death certificate request can be submitted via mail to the following address or in person at the county’s health department:

Office of Vital Records

Arizona Department of Health Services

P.O. Box 3887

Phoenix, AZ 85030-3887

Digital Estate Planning Law

The SB 1413 Revised Uniform Fiduciary Access to Digital Assets Act authorizes an individual’s legal representative who can access and control their digital assets and communications. The law was signed by the Governor on May 11, 2016.

Death With Dignity Legislation or Aid-in-Dying or Physician-Assisted Death

The HB2254 Relating to End of Life Decisions Bill was introduced by Representative Powers Hannley, District 9, on January 13, 2021, and is currently being reviewed. The updates on the status of this bill can be viewed here.

Organ Donation Registry

The Arizona organ donation registry can be accessed here.

Physician Order for Life Sustaining Treatment (POLST)

Arizona’s POLST form can be found here. This form must be completed only after a conversation with a patient or their representative. It’s necessary for patients who are at risk of a life-threatening clinical event due to a life-limiting medical condition.

Probate Laws

Information on Arizona’s legislation on decedent’s will regarding their estate and other assets can be found in the following act:

• Title 14: Trusts, Estates and Protective Proceedings

Estate and Inheritance Tax

As of 2006, Arizona has no estate or inheritance tax.