When it comes to the probate process, you may have heard a lot of negative things. People tend to look at this process as something that is long and costly, but that is not always the case. Probate serves a distinct purpose and can offer your heirs some benefits.
The American Bar Association explains that many states have made probate an easier process so that it moves along quickly. For this reason, there is less of a need to try to avoid it and more of a reason to have your estate go through it because of the benefits.
Proper tax handling
Often, when probate has delays it is due to tax requirements. Even if your estate does not go through probate, it will still have to deal with taxes. Going through the court in probate can help ensure there are no mistakes with tax filings that could cause problems down the road for your heirs.
Administration of estate
Whether your estate goes through probate or not, you will have to have someone to administer it and pass your assets onto heirs. Probate gives some additional oversight to this process that can help you to avoid issues with improper administration or handling of your estate.
Validity of the will
One of the most valuable parts of probate is that the court will solidify the validity of your will. When the court makes a judgment that your will is valid, it can stop people from trying to contest it. This can prevent a lot of hassle from lawsuits and other issues that can stem from someone trying to claim your will is not good.
