Estate Planning: Probate Process, Trusts, Wills

Estate Planning - Probate Process, Trusts, Wills Wills: The Will is the single most important document in estate planning. Your will allows you to make final decisions about your estate. You can divide your estate as you choose, create trust funds and charitable endowments, and reduce the amount of inheritance tax your beneficiaries will have to pay. Read More... Trust Basics: There are a number of very good legal and financial reasons for setting up a trust. One of the most important reasons is to protect your family’s assets and shield your wealth. Also, trust funds can minimize taxes, protect your family’s privacy during the probate process, and ensure that the wishes of your relatives or other loved ones are carried out even if they become incapacitated. Read More... The Probate Process: Probate is the legal process by which a court ensures that your property is distributed to your beneficiaries. Probate is carried out in the court of the city or county where you had your legal home. Only certain kinds of property - called probate property - must go through probate. In some states the probate process may be completed in a few days. It may take many months in others. Read More...