New Mexico Probate Form 4B-401

Notice of informal appointment of personal representative

This page is for educational purposes only and is not legal advice. Forms and requirements change frequently — verify the current version with your local probate court or an attorney.

Last updated: November 5, 2026

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About Notice of informal appointment of personal representative

This form gives notice that a personal representative was informally appointed to administer a decedent's estate, and states that estate documents are on file with the probate court.

When you'd use it: The form states it is for use when a personal representative has been informally appointed for a deceased person's estate and heirs or devisees are being notified.

Where to get the official form

The official version of Notice of informal appointment of personal representative is published as a PDF by the New Mexico courts. We checked this link and it resolved to a form on an official court or government website — always download the current version directly from the source rather than a third-party copy:

Verified official PDF

Download Notice of informal appointment of personal representative (PDF) →

Source: nmcourts.gov

Link last checked: November 5, 2026

How to file Notice of informal appointment of personal representative in New Mexico

  1. Step 1 — Confirm you have the correct formUse Notice of informal appointment of personal representative (4B-401) when the form states it is for use when a personal representative has been informally appointed for a deceased person's estate and heirs or devisees are being notified. Double-check it's the right form for your situation — New Mexico probate forms are revised periodically, so verify the name and number against your court's current form list before you start.
  2. Step 2 — Complete every required fieldFill out Notice of informal appointment of personal representative carefully and review it for errors before filing. Probate cases can already take months — a small mistake on the form can set your timeline back further.
  3. Step 3 — Get it notarized or witnessed if requiredSome probate forms must be signed in front of a notary or witnesses. Check the instructions on the form itself, and arrange notarization before you file if it's required.
  4. Step 4 — File it with the correct courtSubmit Notice of informal appointment of personal representative to the probate court or county clerk handling the estate — usually in the New Mexico county where the deceased lived. Ask the clerk how they prefer to receive filings (in person, by mail, or e-filing).

Working through the Notice of informal appointment of personal representative? SwiftProbate builds a personalized, step-by-step checklist for settling the estate — so you know which forms to file, in what order, and by when.

Get help with this form

Probate in New Mexico

See the full New Mexico probate guide for filing deadlines, small-estate options, timelines, costs, and county courthouse details.

Read the New Mexico probate guide →

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Notice of informal appointment of personal representative (4B-401)?
This form gives notice that a personal representative was informally appointed to administer a decedent's estate, and states that estate documents are on file with the probate court. You'd typically use it when the form states it is for use when a personal representative has been informally appointed for a deceased person's estate and heirs or devisees are being notified.
Where do I file Notice of informal appointment of personal representative in New Mexico?
Probate forms are filed with the probate court or county clerk in the New Mexico county where the deceased person lived. Our New Mexico probate guide can help you find the right courthouse, filing fees, and local requirements.
Do I need a lawyer to complete Notice of informal appointment of personal representative?
Many people complete probate forms themselves, especially for smaller or uncontested estates. Complex estates may benefit from professional advice. SwiftProbate is an informational tool that helps you understand and organize the process — it is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice.
Is Notice of informal appointment of personal representative available online?
Most New Mexico probate forms are published as PDFs by the state courts or the county clerk. You can find the official source linked above.

Other New Mexico Probate Forms

Letters Testamentary (Will)4B-307Application for Informal Appointment of Personal Representative (No Will)4B-301Application for Informal Probate of Will and for Informal Appointment of Personal Representative (Will)4B-302Order of Informal Appointment of Personal Representative (No Will)4B-303

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Disclaimer: This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Probate forms and requirements vary by state, county, and individual circumstances, and change over time. Always verify the current form and instructions with your local probate court, and consult a qualified attorney for advice specific to your situation. SwiftProbate is not a law firm and does not provide legal representation.