Probate & Inheritance Resources
Expert guides, tips, and resources to help you navigate probate, understand your inheritance, and access your funds faster.
Featured Articles
Can You Get an Advance on Your Inheritance? Yes, Here's How
Yes, you can get an advance on your inheritance before probate closes. Learn how inheritance advances work, who qualifies, and how to get cash from your inheritance now.
Do You Inherit Your Parents' Debt? What Happens to Debt After Death
Generally, you don't inherit your parents' debt when they die. But there are exceptions. Learn what types of debt you might be responsible for and how to protect yourself.
All Articles
Are Probate Fees Tax Deductible? What You Can and Can't Deduct
Some probate fees are tax deductible on the estate tax return (Form 706), but not on your personal return. Learn which costs qualify and how to maximize deductions.
Beneficiary Cash Advance: How to Get Money Before Probate Closes
A beneficiary cash advance lets you access your inheritance before the estate settles. Learn how it works, who qualifies, and how to apply.
Can You Get an Advance on Your Inheritance? Yes, Here's How
Yes, you can get an advance on your inheritance before probate closes. Learn how inheritance advances work, who qualifies, and how to get cash from your inheritance now.
Common Reasons for Probate Delays (And What You Can Do)
Probate delays happen for many reasons: will contests, complex assets, missing heirs, tax issues, and more. Learn what causes delays and how to speed things up.
Do All Wills Go Through Probate? When Probate Is (and Isn't) Required
Having a will doesn't avoid probate—it actually requires it. But many assets bypass probate entirely. Learn when probate is required and how to minimize it.
Do You Inherit Your Parents' Debt? What Happens to Debt After Death
Generally, you don't inherit your parents' debt when they die. But there are exceptions. Learn what types of debt you might be responsible for and how to protect yourself.
Documents Needed for an Inheritance Claim: Complete Checklist
To claim an inheritance, you'll need a death certificate, proof of identity, beneficiary documentation, and probate paperwork. Get the complete checklist here.
Estate Cash Advance: How It Works and Who Qualifies
An estate cash advance gives heirs access to their inheritance before probate closes. Learn how it works, costs, requirements, and whether it's right for you.
Heir vs Beneficiary: What's the Difference?
Heirs are determined by law; beneficiaries are chosen in a will or contract. Learn the key differences between heirs and beneficiaries and why it matters.
How Is Inheritance Money Paid Out? The Distribution Process
Inheritance is paid out after probate closes, typically by check, wire transfer, or asset transfer. Learn the timeline, process, and how to get funds faster.
How Long Does an Heir Have to Claim Their Inheritance?
There's no universal deadline to claim an inheritance, but state laws set time limits ranging from 3-10+ years before unclaimed assets go to the state.
How Much Does an Inheritance Advance Cost? Fees Explained
Inheritance advance fees typically range from 10-40% of the advance amount. Learn what affects pricing, how to compare companies, and whether it's worth the cost.
Inheritance & Probate Glossary: 50+ Terms You Need to Know
Confused by probate terminology? This glossary defines 50+ inheritance and estate terms in plain English, from administrator to will contest.
Inheritance Loan vs. Probate Advance: Key Differences Explained
An inheritance loan is personal debt you repay with interest. A probate advance is a sale of your inheritance with no payments. Learn which option is right for you.
How to Claim Your Inheritance: The Complete Process Guide
Learn exactly how inheritances are distributed, what documents you need, and how long the process takes. Step-by-step guide to claiming your inheritance money.
Inheriting Money on Section 8: Will You Lose Your Benefits?
Inheriting money can affect Section 8 housing benefits since the program has income and asset limits. Learn reporting rules, strategies, and how to protect your housing.
Is Inherited Money Marital Property? What You Need to Know
Inherited money is generally separate property, not marital property. But it can become marital property if you commingle it. Learn how to protect your inheritance.
Selling Inherited Property With Multiple Owners: Your Complete Guide
Inherited a house with siblings or other co-owners? Learn your options for selling, buying out, or keeping inherited property when multiple heirs are involved.
What Happens at a Probate Court Hearing? What to Expect
A probate hearing is where the court validates a will, appoints an executor, and resolves estate disputes. Learn what happens, who attends, and how to prepare.
What Happens to a 401k When You Die? Inheritance Rules Explained
A 401k passes directly to your named beneficiary, bypassing probate. Learn about spousal vs non-spouse rules, required distributions, taxes, and what to do.
What Happens If the Executor Does Not Probate the Will?
If an executor refuses or fails to probate a will, beneficiaries can petition the court to remove them and appoint a replacement. Learn what happens and your options.
What Is a Probate Attorney? And Do You Need One?
A probate attorney helps executors and beneficiaries navigate the legal process of settling an estate. Learn what they do, costs, and when to hire one.
What to Do With Inheritance Money: Smart Strategies for Your Windfall
Inherited money? Learn the smartest ways to use your inheritance, from paying off debt to investing for the future. Avoid common mistakes that waste inheritances.
How Long Does Probate Take? A Complete Guide
Learn about typical probate timelines, factors that affect duration, and how to access your inheritance faster while waiting for probate to complete.
How to Avoid Probate: 7 Strategies That Actually Work
Learn proven strategies to avoid probate and help your heirs receive their inheritance faster. From living trusts to beneficiary designations, discover what works.
Is Inheritance Taxable? What You Need to Know in 2025
Learn whether your inheritance is taxable, how federal and state inheritance taxes work, and strategies to minimize your tax burden. Updated for 2025.
Understanding Probate Fees and Costs: What to Expect in 2025
Learn about probate fees, attorney costs, executor compensation, and court expenses. Get a breakdown of what probate really costs and how to minimize expenses.
The Complete Guide to the Probate Process: Step-by-Step
Understand every step of the probate process, from filing the will to distributing assets. Learn what to expect, typical timelines, and how to navigate probate efficiently.
What Is Probate? A Complete Guide to the Probate Process
Probate is the legal process of settling a deceased person's estate, including validating their will, paying debts, and distributing assets to heirs. Learn everything you need to know.
Need Cash From Your Inheritance Now?
Don't wait for probate to complete. Get a free quote for an inheritance advance and receive funds in as little as 24-48 hours.