- To Probate or not isn't
a valid planning goal
- Like any estate planning
tool, Probate is just that. A tool. You must first establish the goals which you
desire to reach, the results which you wish to achieve. Then, and only then, do
you consider whether Probate is one of the tools you need to use, or avoid, to
reach those Estate Planning goals.
- Where
does the phrase come from?
- "Avoid Probate"
is usually used in connection with "living trusts," and by people who
are selling trusts or related services.
- What
does Clark Howard say?
- Perhaps an independant
opinion would be in order. Clark Howard is a respected consumer advocate
here in the Atlanta area. On his website is a short page on wills and trusts.
On that page he states: "A living trust is an alternative to a will
in which your assets pass immediately to your designee when you die. But
its complicated and expensive and few people need it." You may go to
his page using this link: Clark
Howard. Note: if you click on the Clark Howard link, a second
new window will be opened. That too should be closed when you are finished.
- Bottom
Line
- Do not think "avoid
probate." Think "planning!"
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