It’s a good idea for everyone to do some basic estate planning—that is, planning to make sure that your wishes are followed after your death, your family is spared unnecessary expense and delay, and that someone you trust will be in charge if you ever become unable to manage things on your own.
Key estate planning documents in Florida include:
You may also want to consider taking some steps now to avoid probate after your death. Probate is a court proceeding that gives your executor authority to pay your debts and taxes and transfer your assets to the people who inherit them. The process can be expensive and time-consuming, and many people prefer to save their families money and hassle by avoiding it. Probate can be easily avoided with a living trust or other methods—as long as you act during your lifetime. After your death, your family won’t be able to take steps to avoid probate of your estate.
The articles below cover the basics of Florida estate planning issues.
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.
Intestate Succession in Florida
If you die without a will in Florida, your assets will go to your closest relatives under state intestate succession laws.
Florida Restrictions on Who Can Serve as Executor
Learn the rules about who can be your personal representative 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 Power of Attorney Laws
A durable POA allows someone to help you with your financial matters if you ever become incapacitated—here's how to make one in Florida.
Florida is considering a death with dignity law that would allow terminally ill patients to request life-ending medication.
Florida has several options when it's time for probate proceedings.
Probate court proceedings (during which a deceased person's assets are transferred to the people who inherit them) can be long, costly, and confusing.
Florida offers a probate shortcut for "small estates." This makes it easier for survivors to transfer property left by a person who has died.
How to Become an Organ Donor in Florida
To be part of the solution to the ongoing need for donated organs and tissues, take the following steps to become a donor after your death.
Burial & Cremation Laws in Florida
Here are some answers to common questions about post-death matters in Florida.
Learn the rules that govern home funerals in Florida.