Everyone really ought 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 someone you trust will be in charge if you ever become unable to manage things on your own.
If you live in Pennsylvania, you probably need these estate planning documents:
You may also want to consider probate avoidance. Probate is a court proceeding, conducted after someone’s death, that gives your executor authority to pay your debts and taxes and transfer your assets to the people who inherit them. But probate can be expensive and time-consuming, and many people prefer to avoid it altogether, saving their families money and hassle. 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 discuss Pennsylvania estate planning issues.
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.
Intestate Succession in Pennsylvania
If you die without a will in Pennsylvania, your assets will go to your closest relatives under state intestate succession laws.
A surviving spouse does not owe Pennsylvania inheritance tax, but other inheritors might have to pay.
Pennsylvania Living Wills and Advance Directives: What You Need to Know
Making a Pennsylvania advance directive (health care power of attorney and living will) keeps important decisions in the hands of those you trust.
Probate Shortcuts in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania offers probate shortcuts for "small estates." This makes it easier for survivors to transfer property left by a person who has died.
Avoiding Probate in Pennsylvania
Probate court proceedings can be long, costly, and confusing. Learn how Pennsylvania families can save time, money, and hassle
Pennsylvania Probate: An Overview
If you need to shepherd an estate through probate in Pennsylvania, you'll probably get good help from the local court, including downloadable court forms.
Burial and Cremation Laws in Pennsylvania
Here are some answers to common questions about post-death matters in Pennsylvania.
Death With Dignity in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania is considering a death with dignity law that would allow terminally ill patients to request life-ending medication.
Pennsylvania Home Funeral Laws
Learn the rules that govern home funerals in Pennsylvania.