Legal Question in Wills and Trusts in Arizona

Re: tax on a house

If there is no will the decedent's estate will pass to the decedent's legal heirs. Just paying the taxes would not normally entitle you to claim ownership. However, there may be other issues here. Do you live in the property? How long? Why did you pay the taxes if you were not the owner? You may be able to claim the property by adverse possession, or you may have a claim against the estate for the amount of the property taxes you paid. Were you married to the decedent or are you related? You may be the legal heir. You should see an attorney to determine your rights.