Do we have to file a probate form if there is not an estate?

Probate only applies to assets owned in the deceased's name alone. As you describe contractual agreements that trump the will/probate estate (life...

When my heirs calculate the value of my estate - estate tax purposes - include death benefits they receive from life insurance?

The prior attorneys are correct. A big misconception is that life insurance does not generate any tax. It is INCOME tax free to named...

MY MORTGAGE COMPANY OVERPAID MY TAXES AND RAISED MY MONTHLY PAYMENT WHAT CAN I DO?

You do not provide any information from which you could be given an answer as to what is happening. You need to hire an attorney right away to...

My dad just died,my stepmom told us kids there was only a trust that cant be touched until her death.Do we have options,rights?

You may or may not have options or rights. It is entirely possible that he left her a trust for the period of her remaining life, then what ever...

Will transferring house ownership save the house?

What you are talking about is what we refer to as long term care planning or planning for Medicaid eligibility. This is a very difficult and...

Wills are generally public everywhere.

Tax Contract Lawyer. We entered into an agreement with the IRS for an offer an compromise.

Sounds like a tough situation. Do yourself a favor and don't put your name on these postings. I sounds to me like you did not have representation...

Gift Tax

Mr. Snell offers a good answer. Most people refer to them as "Donor" and "Donee" just so you know and are reading up about it and see different...

Elderly parents want to leave money from the sale of a condo in California to 2 adult children. Is there a tax requirement .

You appear to have an idea of the basics. If it is part of a living trust that it is pretty much irrelevant and the same gifting rules would...

I am inheriting money from my Aunt's estate and the Probate was Nov 5,2012. How long after probate would the money be dispersed?

Mr. Jiminez offers a good answer. Some states take longer than others and it depends on how complicated the estate is. As a general rule most...