Probate court proceedings after a death can drag out and cost tens of thousands of dollars in attorney and court fees-money that would otherwise have gone directly to your loved ones. This topselling guide shows you the most effective ways to skip the probate process: name payable-on-death beneficiaries for financial accounts own property jointly leave real estate with transfer-on-death deeds use a living trust name the right beneficiaries for IRAs,...

Estate Planning For Dummies teaches you the ins and outs of estate planning. This everyone-friendly guide walks you through building a solid estate plan, whatever your current financial situation. In easy-to-understand language, you'll learn the ins and outs of estate planning, including what happens to your stuff--cash, real estate, businesses, retirement funds, everything--when you pass away. This new edition is updated for the many recent changes...

"Everything you need to get organized...Do your loved ones know where to find your insurance policies, passwords, title to your car, real estate deeds, health care directive, or even your will? If you're like a lot of people, you keep important information--from automated bill-pay details to passwords to the location of important documents--in your head or stashed in the odd desk drawer. Unfortunately, this disorganization will cause hassles for those...

This book provides the information and encouragement you need to create security for your property, your children, and your health. In plain English, it covers every standard estate planning topic in detail. The information in this book will help you formulate your plan and will save you time and money, whether you create your own estate plan or go to a lawyer for assistance.

"This book discusses estate planning for family cottages and cabins. It includes advice on how to avoid disagreements among siblings over jointly-owned property, prevent a family member from forcing a sale of the cottage or cabin, keep the vacation home out of the hands of in-laws and creditors, and make a smooth transition from one generation's ownership to the next. This edition reflects current tax laws, including state property tax laws which...