Probate is the legal process by which a deceased person’s estate is administered. It ensures that debts are paid and assets are distributed according to a will—or state law if no will exists. While it’s meant to protect everyone involved, probate can be slow and complicated. One of the biggest reasons for delays is the...
When a loved one passes away and leaves behind an estate, the process of distributing the assets can take months—or even years—due to probate delays. This can be incredibly frustrating, especially for heirs who need access to funds now. That’s where an inheritance loan comes in. An inheritance loan, sometimes called an estate advance or...
Yes, it’s possible to get an inheritance loan even if there’s no will—although the process may look a little different. When someone dies without a will, their estate is considered “intestate,” and the court follows a state-specific formula to determine who inherits. This usually prioritizes spouses, children, and close relatives. While this legal process is...
Trustees have a legal obligation to act in the best interest of beneficiaries—but unfortunately, not all trustees fulfill their duties properly. If you’re dealing with a trustee who is unresponsive, dishonest, or mismanaging the trust, you may have legal grounds to have them removed. Here are some red flags that might justify removal: Lack of...
Inheritance fraud is a heartbreaking reality for many heirs. Whether it’s a family member forging documents, a caregiver exerting undue influence, or an executor hiding assets, fraud can deprive rightful beneficiaries of what’s theirs. Here are a few common signs of inheritance fraud: Sudden or suspicious changes to a will Missing or hidden estate documents...
Many people assume their inheritance will be available immediately after a loved one passes—but that’s rarely the case, especially when the estate has outstanding debts. During probate, creditors must be paid before any heirs receive their inheritance. This includes mortgage balances, credit card debt, medical bills, and even taxes. If debts are high, the executor...
When someone creates a trust, they place immense faith in the trustee they appoint. This person or institution is expected to manage and distribute the trust’s assets fairly, responsibly, and in accordance with the grantor’s wishes. But what happens when the trustee doesn’t live up to that standard? A breach of fiduciary duty by a trustee is...
Trusts are meant to simplify the transfer of assets after someone’s death—but when disagreements arise, a disputed trustcan quickly become a complex legal matter. Beneficiaries may find themselves waiting months or even years for their rightful inheritance. While the courts sort through the details, financial stress can mount, especially if the trust was supposed to help...
When a loved one passes away and their estate enters probate litigation, everything can grind to a halt. Legal challenges over wills, executor conduct, or asset distribution can delay your inheritance for months—or even years. If you’re an heir caught in the middle of a legal battle and need money now, a probate inheritance loan could be the...
When a loved one passes away and leaves behind a trust, the person appointed to oversee it is called a trustee. This individual has the important job of managing the trust’s assets, making distributions to beneficiaries, and carrying out the wishes of the person who created the trust (the grantor). But what happens when a trustee...