Assets in a will, such as property, can be listed simply or detailed. They may include such non-titled property as family heirlooms and keepsakes, which have much more sentimental than financial value. Oftentimes, distributing family heirlooms and keepsakes presents greater challenges for family members than transferring titled property.

It is important to learn your state's laws regarding non-titled property transfer. The law varies widely from state to state on what is required to make wishes regarding personal property binding on the heirs of an estate. If you anticipate disputes over who gets what, talk to an attorney in your state to find out what you need to do to properly plan for personal property in your state. What worked for a loved one in another state may not work for you.

For ideas on discussing the distribution of non-titled property with sentimental value, see "Who Gets Grandma's Yellow Pie Plate?” http://www.yellowpieplate.umn.edu/indexB.html

Remember that some assets with beneficiaries—which may include life insurance policies, pension funds, and Individual Retirement Accounts—pass outside of a will.

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?

a. What Constitutes a Valid Will?

b. Types of Wills

c. Will Kits and Forms

d. Assets in a Will

e. Changing a Will

f. Dying Without a Will

VI. 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.