When a person dies without proper planning, their estate enters a public legal process that can last months—sometimes ...

Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. Bob Carlson researches all facets of retirement finances. About 70% of U.S. adults don’t have a will or trust, according to ...

Get started to see how well you understand the benefits of planning for the future and ensuring your final wishes are carried ...

Can You Settle an Estate Without Probate? In certain situations, it is possible to settle an estate without going through probate. Assets held in joint ownership, assets with named beneficiaries (such ...

One of the biggest mistakes people make is naming minor children as beneficiaries on accounts and policies. The thought is "I'll avoid probate court because I have beneficiaries named and they'll get ...

Probate is a largely misunderstood but generally feared concept. Over half of the respondents to a recent study said that they have no idea about the costs involved in probate, and that they perceive ...