There are topics we prefer not to touch because we feel that, by naming them, we might attract them. A will is one of them: for some people, talking about what will happen to their assets when they die is almost like inviting death to the doorstep of their home. For others, it is simply a procedure that can wait until it becomes necessary.
Perhaps that is why many continue to postpone it. Although Mexico City accounts for 23% of these types of documents issued in the country —more than any other state, according to data from the Comprehensive Notarial Network of the Mexico City Notarial Association—, only 202,419 have been registered between 2021 and June 2026.
Leaving everything to chance can not only generate conflicts among those who remain behind, but can also lengthen a process that is already complex in itself. An intestate succession involves more time and expenses, while putting things in order in advance can save both.
Take Advantage of Will Month
September is not only the month of the national celebrations: it is also a good opportunity to put your assets in order, since during these weeks making a will costs less and requires fewer trips.
The national campaign “September, Will Month” reaches its 24th edition this year. The initiative began in 2003 as a joint effort between the Ministry of the Interior and the Mexican Notariat, with a simple objective: for more Mexican families to organize their assets before it is too late.
If you own a house, a car, or a business, it is worth knowing how to take advantage of this initiative in the capital.
Where to Do It and How Much It Costs
For 2026, notaries in Mexico City set a unified preferential cost of $3,800. The fee already includes VAT and the notice of execution, so taking advantage of the campaign can represent a huge relief for your wallet, considering that completing this procedure outside this period can cost twice as much or more.
And if work during the week makes it difficult for you to find time, there is no excuse either: dozens of notary offices across the 16 boroughs will extend their hours during Saturdays in September, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
In addition, the Mexico City General Directorate of Territorial Regularization (DGRT) provides guidance through its central offices and citizen service modules, as well as notarial services and the Testamóvil, a mobile unit that takes these services to different communities to facilitate access to legal certainty.
If you are looking to take advantage of this option, consider the following fees:
- Universal Will, ages 16 to 64
Basic: $2,199.56
With legacies: $3,187.31
- Will for Older Adults, ages 65 and over
Basic: $733.19
With legacies: $2,199.56
Legacies are provisions through which a person determines that a specific asset, tangible or intangible, passes to a designated person.
These amounts are lower than the $3,800 preferential cost established for notaries during the “September, Will Month” campaign, making the DGRT services a more affordable alternative.
In the end, making a will is not about thinking about death, but about avoiding problems. Whether through a notary office or the options offered by the Mexico City government, this month can be a good time to put your assets in order and make things clear before it is too late.
Who Are the Parties in a Will?
Executor: takes care of and administers the assets.
Guardian: protects and legally represents your minor children or people with disabilities who require support in decision-making, in your absence.
Legatee: receives a specific asset as an inheritance.
Heir: receives all the assets.
Source: chilango
