Colorado Advance Directive: Everything You Need to Know
Medical care instructions if you become incapacitated
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ADVANCE DIRECTIVE FOR HEALTHCARE State of Colorado PART I — APPOINTMENT OF HEALTHCARE AGENT I, [YOUR NAME], of [ADDRESS], Colorado CO, appoint the following person as my Healthcare Agent: Agent Name: [AGENT NAME] Address: [AGENT ADDRESS] Phone: [PHONE] Alternate Agent: [ALTERNATE NAME] Address: [ALTERNATE ADDRESS] Phone: [PHONE] My Healthcare Agent is authorized to make all healthcare decisions for me when I am unable to do so, including decisions about life-sustaining treatment. PART II — INSTRUCTIONS FOR HEALTHCARE If I am terminally ill or permanently unconscious: [ ] I DO want life-sustaining treatment [ ] I DO NOT want life-sustaining treatment [ ] I want treatment only if my doctor believes it will improve my condition Artificial Nutrition and Hydration: [ ] I DO want artificial nutrition and hydration [ ] I DO NOT want artificial nutrition and hydration Pain Management: I want all measures taken to keep me comfortable and free from pain, even if such measures hasten my death. Organ Donation: [ ] I wish to donate my organs and tissues [ ] I do not wish to donate my organs PART III — GENERAL PROVISIONS This directive is made in accordance with Colorado law (CO Statutes). It shall remain in effect until revoked. DECLARANT SIGNATURE: _____________________ DATE: _____ WITNESS 1: _____________________ DATE: _____ WITNESS 2: _____________________ DATE: _____ NOTARY (if required in Colorado): Subscribed and sworn before me this ___ day of _______, 20__. Notary Public: _____________________
Michael Chen, Esq.
Real Estate Law Consultant
Bar Certified, Real Estate Expert
Expert in property transactions and real estate documentation
This Advance Directive template for Colorado has been reviewed for accuracy and legal compliance.
Last reviewed: March 2026
Advance Directive Costs in Colorado
Estimated fees and processing times
| Fee Type | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Notary Fee | $5-$15 (if required) | Colorado standard rate: $5-$10 |
| Filing Fee | Varies by state | State registration (if applicable) |
| Processing Time | 1-3 business days | Typical turnaround in Colorado |
| Sales Tax | 2.9% | Colorado base rate (local taxes may apply) |
| Witness Requirement | 1 witness | Single witness sufficient |
| Our Template | FREE | Download instantly, no cost |
FAQ: Advance Directive in Colorado
Is a Advance Directive required in Colorado?
Yes, in Colorado, a Advance Directive is required for most transactions of this type. Under Colorado State Code, the document must include all parties' information, be signed, and witnessed by at least one individual. Failure to use a proper Advance Directive may result in legal complications.
Does a Advance Directive need to be notarized in Colorado?
Notarization requirements in Colorado (CO) vary by transaction type. Notary fees in the state typically range from $5-$10. While not always mandatory, notarization adds an extra layer of legal protection and is recommended for high-value transactions.
What are the tax implications of a Advance Directive in Colorado?
Colorado has a base sales tax rate of 2.9%. Depending on the type of transaction documented in your Advance Directive, additional local taxes may apply. Consult with a Colorado tax professional for specific guidance on your situation.
Is an advance directive the same as a living will?
An advance directive is a broader document that typically includes both a living will (treatment preferences) and a healthcare power of attorney (appointing a decision-maker). Some states combine these into one form.
When does an advance directive take effect?
An advance directive takes effect only when you are unable to communicate your own healthcare decisions, typically due to unconsciousness, severe illness, or cognitive impairment. Your doctor must determine you lack decision-making capacity.
Do hospitals have to follow my advance directive?
Yes, healthcare providers are legally required to follow valid advance directives in all states. However, a provider may refuse on moral grounds but must transfer your care to another provider who will honor your wishes.
Colorado Advance Directive Legal Guide
In Colorado, this document is legally binding under local statutes and provides essential protection for both parties involved in the transaction.
Under Colorado State Code, residents of Colorado must ensure this Advance Directive complies with all state requirements. The current sales tax rate is 2.9%, and notarization costs between $5-$10. One witness is required in CO.
This professionally drafted form provides peace of mind knowing you're compliant with all Colorado legal requirements.
Getting It Done Right in Colorado
Here's the practical approach: download, fill in your details, get signatures, and handle any CO-required notarization. Colorado makes the process relatively straightforward, but attention to detail matters. Keep at least two copies — one for each party involved.
Smart Practices for CO Compliance
Colorado has specific rules that differ from neighboring states. Always verify your document against current CO statutes, especially if you're using a template from a previous year. Laws change, and what was valid last year in Colorado may need updating for 2026.
Legal Validity & Enforcement
Once properly executed, your Advance Directive is legally binding in Colorado and enforceable in CO courts. The document remains valid indefinitely unless revoked or superseded. Colorado courts generally uphold properly executed documents, provided they comply with applicable CO statutes.
Colorado Statutory Requirements
The CO legislature has established specific guidelines for advance directive documents. These include proper execution formalities, witness requirements, and in some cases, mandatory filing with the county clerk's office. Non-compliance can result in legal complications.
Colorado has specific rules that differ from neighboring states. Always verify your document against current CO statutes, especially if you're using a template from a previous year. Laws change, and what was valid last year in Colorado may need updating for 2026.
Legal Validity & Enforcement
Once properly executed, your Advance Directive is legally binding in Colorado and enforceable in CO courts. The document remains valid indefinitely unless revoked or superseded. Colorado courts generally uphold properly executed documents, provided they comply with applicable CO statutes.
Colorado Statutory Requirements
The CO legislature has established specific guidelines for advance directive documents. These include proper execution formalities, witness requirements, and in some cases, mandatory filing with the county clerk's office. Non-compliance can result in legal complications.
The CO legislature has established specific guidelines for advance directive documents. These include proper execution formalities, witness requirements, and in some cases, mandatory filing with the county clerk's office. Non-compliance can result in legal complications.
Colorado Advance Directive Requirements
Review the following requirements to ensure your Advance Directive is legally valid in Colorado.
Colorado Notarization
While notarization may not be required in Colorado, it is recommended. Fees range from $5-$10.
Before You Sign
Review all information carefully. In Colorado, a 2.9% sales tax may apply.
Legal Protection
Keep copies of all signed documents. Colorado law requires all parties to receive copies of executed documents.
Colorado Filing Deadlines
Check Colorado deadlines for filing or recording this document with the appropriate county clerk's office.
Where to File Your Advance Directive in Colorado
Visit your local County Clerk office to file or notarize your Advance Directive.
Colorado County Clerk
Colorado Capital
Main Government Building, Colorado
District County Clerk
Colorado Metro Area
County Courthouse, CO
Other Forms in Colorado
Advance Directive in Neighboring States
Document Information
- Document
- Advance Directive
- State
- Colorado (CO)
- Category
- Estate Planning
- Format
- PDF / Word / Print
- Cost
- 100% Free
- Sales Tax
- 2.9%
- Notary Fee
- $5-$10
Colorado Legal Requirements
Governing Statute:
State Law
- ✓Consult with a licensed attorney for specific requirements
Legal Disclaimer
This template is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Laws in Colorado may change. Consult a licensed attorney for advice specific to your situation.