When an estate goes through administration, a vital part of the process is satisfying the deceased debtor's obligations by notifying all creditors and allowing for the filing of debt claims against the estate. However, not all claims may be valid and there is no...
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Estate Administration And Probate
What are common mistakes an executor makes in probate?
When a loved one dies, the monumental task of managing their estate often falls on an executor. The decedent could have appointed this person on their will or the court may designate them if there is no existing will. An executor must carry out the decedent’s wishes...
How to simplify the probate process for your loved ones
Without any doubt, your loved ones will one day feel your loss very heavily. Naturally, you want to do everything in your power to make it easier for them when the time comes. Unfortunately, the probate process can be a serious strain, and any problems that come up...
How can you avoid delays in probate?
When a loved one passes away, the legal and financial process that follows often feel overwhelming, especially when you think about how long the process will take and how much it will cost. The same applies if you are the one who passes away and leave your loved ones...
What happens to Social Security benefits when someone dies?
When someone dies, there are usually a lot of different notifications that have to be made – not the least of which involves the Social Security Administration (SSA). Whether your loved one was receiving retirement benefits, Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)...
Where to get a death certificate and what to do next
Losing a loved one can be very difficult, but there’s still a lot of work that has to be done to settle their estate – and the “business” of wrapping up their final affairs generally starts with obtaining a death certificate. A death certificate is typically prepared...
Where should people look for a will when a loved one dies?
Losing a loved one is a very difficult experience. Many people experience depression that manifests as inertia after a great loss. They may have a difficult time handling daily life, to say nothing of the unique challenges that come with estate administration. Some...
What assets are at risk during Medicaid estate recovery efforts?
When someone dies in Virginia, the property that they own becomes their estate. Their financial obligations and debts become the responsibility of their estate. The personal representative that they name in their testamentary documents or the individual appointed to...
An estate planning checklist for the surviving spouse
If your spouse has recently passed away, you are likely feeling overwhelmed by your emotional loss. Finding the strength to handle practical matters can seem distressing. However, there are some things you should probably address as soon as you can. 1. Locate...
Can financial accounts bypass the Virginia probate courts?
The Virginia courts oversee estate administration. The assets of those most people who die without an estate plan in place have their assets pass through probate court. Additionally, anyone who owns real property or significant assets solely in their own name that are...