When you begin estate planning, it is important to understand property and the property rights associated with its ownership. The form of property ownership has an important impact on the degree of control during life, as well as how property will be taxed and distributed after death.

All estates are made up of property. It may be tangible property, intangible property, real property, or a combination of the three.

Tangible personal property is property that can be touched or felt, such as cars, stereo equipment, television sets, furniture, silver, china, clothing, or furs. Tangible personal property is often called personal effects or household goods.

Intangible personal property might include stock certificates, bond certificates, patents, trademarks, or copyrights. Cash, checking accounts, savings accounts, money market accounts, and certificates of deposit (often referred to as liquid assets) are also part of your property.

Real property is real estate and land and anything that is affixed or erected upon the land. It can include fences, barns, mineral or oil rights, and crops or timber, to name a few.

Lesson Contents

I. Introduction

II. Estate Planning

III. Power of Attorney: Planning for Incapacity

IV. Property Transfer: Documents and Legal Arrangements

a. Property Ownership

b. How Property is Titled

c. Types of Joint Ownership

V. A Will: Who Needs One?

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

---

Glossary

Case Studies and Resources

Print this Lesson

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.