A loved one's death is difficult to deal with, but when you get to probate and find that he or she made changes to a plan you were familiar with before, it may come as a shock. When a will undergoes a substantial and surprising change, your loved one may have done so...
Estate Administration & Probate
How can joint tenancy help you avoid probate?
The probate process can be lengthy and complicated, particularly if you own complex assets. Narrowing down the amount of your personal assets that will pass through probate may be a concern of yours. Some people decide to create a joint tenancy arrangement as a way to...
Should you include a revocable trust in your estate plan?
A revocable trust can be a powerful tool in an estate plan. Whether you wish to skip generations or protect a family business, a revocable trust could be a smart addition to your toolbox. Consider including a revocable trust in your estate plan to help you reach your...
Should you make a relative your executor?
Picking an executor for your estate is an important part of setting up your estate plan. They will manage most of the estate affairs after your death, meaning you must trust them and view them as responsible. Many people will default lean toward relatives for that...
Common vs Solemn Form Probate in Georgia
In Georgia, probate is necessary for all wills, including assets over $10,000. When a will contains property, it must go through common or solemn probate. A will's executor typically determines which option to pursue when submitting the will to probate court. What is...
The ins and outs of estate taxes
As the executor of the estate, you are typically responsible for filing the taxes. As you begin this process, you could have many questions about the fine details. The Internal Revenue Service says that you have to file estate taxes if your loved one's estate exceded...
What should you know about probate?
All wills are subject to a process known as probate. Accordingly, it is important that you understand how the probate process works. With probate, the court will review your will to ensure it is legally binding. From there, the court will use your assets to pay off...
What is an advance directive?
When dealing with estate planning, many of the things you take care of have to do with how you want things handled in the future after your death. This can include how you want your assets and estate divided and what you want your loved ones to do with your body. But...
When should an executor sell a home in probate?
As someone named to be the executor of a relative’s estate, you will have many responsibilities in closing out the estate according to your family member’s wishes. One duty may involve the fate of the home your relative lived in. You may have to sell the property if...
What is a probate bond and who needs one?
If a loved one died without a will, the court might appoint you as the estate administrator. This person takes charge of the deceased's estate, distributing assets and paying creditors as necessary. However, this position as a fiduciary may financially impact you if...