Learn how probate validates a will, pays debts, and distributes assets to heirs. State intestacy laws apply when there is no ...

When you die, a section of law known as estate and probate law governs how your assets are distributed. Someone who dies (known as the “decedent”) with a legitimate will has set up what is known as a ...

Each state follows its own formula for distributing assets in the absence of a will. Surviving spouses and children may receive different proportions of the estate depending on jurisdiction, sometimes ...

Think estate planning can wait? Here’s the thing: putting off or delaying estate planning can leave your loved ones in a difficult position. Among the issues is passing away without a will, one of ...

Probate is the administrative process used to move official ownership of a deceased person’s possessions, known as assets, to other people. When someone dies having signed a valid will, the probate ...

Julia Kagan is a financial/consumer journalist and former senior editor, personal finance, of Investopedia. Marguerita is a Certified Financial Planner (CFP), Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor ...