Zuckerberg Associates

Playa del Carmen - Cancun -
Tulum - Merida - Yucatan

MEXICO

Mexican Will - Mes del Testamento

September is Will Month in Mexico: Secure Your Legacy with Zuckerberg Associates

Notaries reduce fees nationwide in September — the best time to formalize your will.

Every September, Mexico celebrates “Mes del Testamento” (Will Month) — a nationwide campaign where notaries reduce their fees to encourage people to formalize their wills. This initiative helps families avoid conflict, bureaucracy, and unnecessary expense when a loved one passes away.

At Zuckerberg Associates, we believe preparing a will is more than just signing papers — it’s about ensuring your loved ones inherit property, not problems.

Why You Need a Will in Mexico

  • Intestate succession: without a will, the law — not you — decides heirs.
  • Delays & court battles: disputes can last years.
  • Cross-border complications: foreign wills + Mexican property create friction.
  • Risk of escheat: property can end up with the government if no heirs claim it.

By making a Mexican will, you protect your assets and give your family peace of mind.

Special Will Month Packages

  • $250 USD + VAT — Standard Mexican Will (drafted, notarized, and registered with the National Will Registry, RENAT).
  • $395 USD + VAT — Expat Will Package (cross-border review of foreign wills + bilingual consultation).
  • Custom Family & Business Packages — tailored for complex estates, businesses, or multi-property owners.

Unlike standard notarial templates, our wills include personalized legal advice to address foreign heirs, cross-border tax issues, and bilingual clarity.

FAQ — Wills & Inheritance in Mexico

What happens if a person dies without a will in Mexico?

The estate enters intestate succession. The law determines heirs in order: spouse, children, parents, then other relatives. Without heirs, property can eventually pass to the government.

When does the estate legally “open”?

At the moment of death. Probate begins once heirs or a notary initiate proceedings.

How long do you have to claim an inheritance?

Generally up to 10 years, but delays make the process more costly and complex.

Can you accept or refuse an estate?

Yes. An heir can formally accept or renounce before a notary or judge.

Can a minor accept an estate?

Only through a guardian or with court approval. A properly drafted will helps avoid delays.

Does a married woman need her husband’s approval?

No. Mexican law recognizes independent inheritance rights.

If there are multiple heirs, can one accept and others refuse?

Yes. Each heir decides individually, and shares adjust accordingly.

What happens if a person dies before accepting an inheritance?

Their right passes to their heirs — called representation succession.

Can you accept or refuse from abroad?

Yes. With a notarized and apostilled power of attorney, heirs can act from outside Mexico.

What if one of the heirs does not respond?

The process may stall. Courts can set deadlines for heirs to act.

The Albacea (Executor)

What is an albacea?

The executor who safeguards assets, pays debts, and ensures distribution.

Who cannot be an albacea?

Minors, incapacitated persons, creditors of the estate, or anyone barred by the will.

Can there be more than one albacea?

Yes — either jointly or in succession.

What happens if no albacea is appointed?

Heirs may appoint one, or the court may intervene.

What if heirs disagree on the albacea?

The court can appoint an impartial party.

What are the duties of the albacea?
  • Inventory estate assets
  • Pay debts and taxes
  • Manage assets during probate
  • Distribute property among heirs
Does the albacea need to provide guarantees?

Sometimes — e.g., a bond. Heirs can agree to waive this.

Can the albacea sell assets to pay debts?

Yes, with proper authorization.

Partition & Notarization

What types of inheritance exist?
  • Testate succession (with a will)
  • Intestate succession (without a will)
When is partition made?

After debts and obligations are settled.

Must partition be notarized?

Yes — final partition is notarized to transfer property titles.

How to check if a will exists?

Search the Registro Nacional de Avisos de Testamento (RENAT).

Cross-Border & Expat Issues

Can a foreign will be used in Mexico?

Yes, but it usually requires translation, apostille, and court validation — which can be expensive and slow. A Mexican will is faster and safer.

Can foreigners own property in Mexico?

Yes. Property in restricted zones (coasts/borders) is typically held through a bank trust (fideicomiso); wills should address this.

What if my heirs live abroad?

They can inherit, but extra paperwork is required. Bilingual wills and POAs simplify the process.

Can an inheritance be refused if debts exceed assets?

Yes. Heirs can renounce an inheritance.

Why Choose Zuckerberg Associates Over Standard Notaries?

  • Notaries: low-cost in September but typically offer generic templates only.
  • Other firms: discount wills focused on volume.
  • Zuckerberg Associates: local notarial services plus international estate planning expertise — protecting your heirs in Mexico and abroad.

Take Action This September

Don’t leave your loved ones unprotected. Take advantage of Will Month and secure your estate with Zuckerberg Associates.

Contact us today to schedule your consultation. Your future. Your family. Your peace of mind.