It is common to hear quite negative, and even scary, things about probate. So, when you begin the process of estate planning, you may wonder: is there a way to make things easier on that front for your family?
There are steps you can take. These are three actions you can take now that could help facilitate the probate process in the future.
1. Be detailed
Take great care in organizing your assets as well as your estate plan. The more details you offer, the more guidance you provide for your family after you are gone. For example, you can include instructions for how to handle your assets in your will or in your trust.
You can make use of various estate planning tools to facilitate probate or even keep assets from going through probate. Your estate plan should meet your needs. So, it can help to understand all of the options available to you as you prepare your estate plan.
2. Communicate
It is not easy to talk with your family about what could happen when you are no longer here. However, it is an important conversation to have. As we have discussed in previous blog posts, it can help to:
- Prepare what you want to say
- Set aside a time to have this conversation
- Keep your family updated on any changes you make
Ensuring your family understands your wishes – coming directly from you – can make a big difference. Plus, communicating now can also reduce the risk of misunderstandings, confusion and even conflict later, during the probate process.
3. Ensure your plan follows the law
When the laws change, so may your estate plan. It is important to keep your plan updated according to any changes in California law. Stay aware of any new laws, even after you create your estate plan, to make sure it remains aligned with the state rules.
Estate planning is not only for planning to protect your assets, legacy and family. You can also plan to guide your family through this process. Keep in mind that a will (or no will) triggers the probate process if the assets of your loved one are over a certain amount, and in the loved one’s name, without a beneficiary designation.