The principles of estate planning are the same in every state: You want to get your affairs in order so that after your death, your assets will go to the people you want to inherit them, family members aren't confused or angry, unnecessary costs and delay are avoided, and someone you trust has authority to make sure your wishes are followed. You may also want to take extra measures to make sure that children, or adults who need help managing money, won' t squander what they inherit.
That said, state laws do have a big effect on estate planning. State laws differ when it comes to property rights of spouses, the rights of children to inherit, and estate and inheritance taxes. Each state also has its own set of allowed probate-avoidance methods. You need to know your state's rules before you can do effective, efficient estate planning.
Learn more about your state's estate planning laws at the links below:
How to Make a Will in California
A last will and testament can help protect your family and your property.
Make a Living Trust in California
Find out how to make a living trust in California.
California Probate: An Overview
The California probate process isn't as complicated as in some states, but it can be expensive.
In New York, a will can help you protect your family and your property.
Make a Living Trust in New York
Learn how to make a living trust in New York.
New York offers a probate shortcut for "small estates." This makes it easier for survivors to transfer property left by a person who has died.
Intestate Succession in New York
If you die without a will in New York, your assets will go to your closest relatives under state “intestate succession” laws.
A will can help you protect your family and your property in Texas.
Learn how to make a living trust in Texas.
A will can help you protect your family and your property.
Make a Living Trust in Illinois
Learn how to make a living trust in Illinois.
Find out how to make a will to protect you and your family in Pennsylvania.
Make a Living Trust in Pennsylvania
Learn how to make a living trust in Pennsylvania.
Pennsylvania Restrictions on Who Can Serve as Executor
Learn the rules about who can be your personal representative in Pennsylvania.
A will can help you protect your family and your property.
Make a Living Trust in Florida
Learn how to make a living trust in Florida.
ABLE Accounts in Florida: A Savings Plan for People With Disabilities
Florida's ABLE United accounts help those with special needs save money while remaining eligible for disability benefits.
Florida has several options when it's time for probate proceedings.