Steps in the probate process include:

• Petition for probate of the will or administration of the estate
• Appointment of a personal representative
• Notice to creditors
• Assembly, inventory, and appraisal of property
• Classification and payment of demands against the estate (such as debts of the decedent and liens against his or her property)
• Determination of homestead rights and family allowances
• Management (and sale, if necessary) of property
• Payment of state and federal taxes
• Accounting to the court and distribution of property

Lesson Contents

I. Introduction

II. Estate Planning

III. Power of Attorney: Planning for Incapacity

IV. Property Transfer: Documents and Legal Arrangements

V. A Will: Who Needs One?

VI. The Probate Process

a. Steps in the Probate Process

VII. Personal Representative: To Carry Out Your Wishes

VIII. Gifting and Tax Strategies

IX. A Trust: Who Needs One?

X. How to Hire and Work with an Attorney

XI. Learn More

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Glossary

Case Studies and Resources

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Disclaimer

Acknowledgments

Prepare Your Estate Plan belongs to a series called Legally Secure Your Financial Future. The series also includes information to help you organize important household papers and to communicate your health-care wishes.

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