Estate Attorney - Page 2

patbz · ‎03-10-2010

We've had wills, trust, powers of attorney etc since I was 59 (I'm now 81). Life goes on, things change; therefore I've changed my estate plan twice, most recently 6 months ago. Amendments to my trust weren't expensive, last one was $600. Do you own a home or have children? These things make changes inevitable. There are a lot of books about these things; maybe read A Dummies book before you have your appointment with your lawyer. I bought my 36 yr Son a will and trust kit because he doesn't own a home ( he'll inherit ours) but does have two children ( and never married their mother).

Alsace Gal · ‎11-25-2014

@BunSnoop

I'm so very sorry for the loss of your husband.

I lost mine in 2008.

First, take a deep breath, nothing needs to be done the first few days.

Order death certificates, I ordered 10.

The Ira's and Roth account. I assume you're the beneficiary.

You will call them and explain what has happened. They will ask for a death certificate, Your I.D. Maybe a martiage license. Someone will correct me if I'm wrong.

I sent everything by mail. When I called and notified them of my husband's death, the call was short and from then on everything was done by mail, everything.

Your husbands cars-take a death certificate to the DMV, as you are his wife it will be transferred to your name. See your insurance agent before the DMV.

Go to your bank and ask what they need. First take enough funds out to cover immediate expenses. If I remember correctly, within a week or so, your bank will be notified of his passing.
Do you own property jointly? If so, you don't need to do anything.ONLY if you want to sell, and claim the capital gains deduction for both of you.I believe it's the year he passed. I'm in California.

First step- Take care of his IRA's and Roth accounts.

Second- bank accounts.

It's been so many years since I went through this I hope I've been of some help.

Be prepared for kids, family and friends offering advice and looking after their own self interest.

Remember, decisions you make today will decide your financial future.

Kachina624 · ‎03-10-2010

@BunSnoop wrote:
My husband passed away a few days ago. We did not have a will. In the near future, after I receive copies of his death certificate and after I'm feeling up to it, I plan to contact an estate attorney to get a will made for myself. I also need help from the attorney with what I need to do with the passing of my husband regarding bank accounts, Roth account, automobile titles in my husband's name only, house deed, credit cards in his name only, etc.

When I call for the appointment I'll ask what they need for me to bring, but at this time I'm curious - did you have to bring all of the paperwork to the initial visit?

My will I "think" will be considered simple. As for my husband, I "think" besides having everything with his name transferred to mine I don't think it will be too involved. If you had a similar experience, approximately what was the cost.

I'm totally overwhelmed with everything but it appears on advise that I've received the first thing I should do is resolve financial issues.

If you can help me it would be very much appreciated. Thank you!

@BunSnoop. Ask @Sooner . She's had a lot of experience with settling estates.

New Mexico☀️Land Of Enchantment

Mom2Dogs · ‎03-09-2010

@BunSnoop No advice, we have our wills-- your attorney will help you with everything you need to do...I just wanted to offer my sympathies to you.

Take care.

cindyNC · ‎08-01-2019

@BunSnoop So very sorry for your loss.

catter70 · ‎10-11-2017

My sincere condolences to you.

D Kay · ‎04-20-2010

It might be helpful to look online for the estate laws in your particular state.

Snowpuppy · ‎03-09-2010

Nobody suggested copies of your marriage certificate. Were either of you married previously? Divorce papers are handy, too.

You can tell people you are the Mrs but you need to prove it in writing.

If you have a mortgage on your home, don't be shocked if your lender requires you to refi. Deed is one thing, mortgage in his name or both names can be an issue.

PhilaLady1 · ‎03-11-2010

@BunSnoop

Sorry to jam up this thread with an unhelpful post because I don't have any answers for you. I just want to say that I am so sorry for your loss. My husband passed about 3 months ago and I know your pain. I am in awe and admire you so much for having the strength to even type out your post. I am still working on my coherence. I lost my mind a little bit when it happened. Not really but you know what I mean. I will include you in my next prayer.