Pay on Death (POD) and Transfer on Death (TOD) Defined
Kurt R. BachmanLearn the difference between Pay on Death (POD) and Transfer on Death (TOD) designations, and how Indiana law affects non-probate asset transfers.Kurt R. Bachman
Probate
What Happens If You Die Without a Will?
Janell M. SprinkleIn Indiana, if you pass away without a Last Will and Testament, your assets are divided among your heirs in accordance with Indiana Intestacy laws. Janell M. Sprinkle
Pay on Death (POD) and Transfer on Death (TOD): Pros and Cons
Jesica L. ThorsonA payable-on-death (POD) or transfer-on-death (TOD) designation to an account allows the funds in that account to be passed to the named beneficiary or beneficiaries when the account holder dies.Jesica L. Thorson
How Is a Disclaimer Helpful When a Spouse Passes with a Pour-Over Will?
Kurt R. BachmanA legal disclaimer can be helpful for a surviving spouse with a pour-over Will by allowing assets solely owned by the deceased spouse to bypass the Family Trust and be transferred directly to the children, avoiding complex trust management and potentially unnecessary tax strategies.Kurt R. Bachman
What Is Elder Law? A Guide to Legal Planning for Seniors
Kurt R. BachmanWhat is Elder Law, why should I seek advice & counsel from an Elder Law attorney, and at what age should I begin?Kurt R. Bachman
Do You Need to Share Your Estate Plan with Heirs?
Tony B. MannsThe toughest part of an estate plan may be just getting started. Taking the time to think through what you want and what is best for your loved ones and heirs can be a difficult, but rewarding, task. Tony B. Manns
Four Common Beneficiary Mistakes in Indiana Estate Planning
Troy C. KieferChoosing beneficiaries for your financial accounts, like retirement funds, life insurance, and bank accounts, seems simple, but mistakes can lead to serious problems. One common pitfall is failing to update your beneficiaries. Troy C. Kiefer
What Is a Small Estate? Simplifying Probate for Families
Jesica L. ThorsonWhen a loved one is lost, the family needs to determine if probate administration is necessary to help transfer assets to the heirs. Jesica L. Thorson
What is a Transfer on Death (TOD) Deed, and Should I Have One?
Jesica L. ThorsonWhat is a Transfer on Death deed, and should I have one? Jesica L. Thorson
What is an Estate’s Personal Representative, and How is One Appointed?
Ryan M. GardnerA personal representative is the individual appointed by the Court to oversee the management of a decedent’s estate. Their duties often include simple tasks such as bill pay, but also sometimes include the difficult duty of marshaling, locating, and organizing, the decedent’s property. This individual typically works closely with an attorney who helps them throughout the probate process.Ryan M. Gardner