Family Guide to Wills, Funerals, and Probate How to Protect Yourself and Your Survivors

Benjamin Franklin said, "in this world nothing is certain but death & taxes." Few people want to think about death, & fewer still are willing to plan for it. However, in today's world of bureaucracies--banks & brokers, probate courts, federal & state tax authorities, & other government agencies--families are often left to deal with confusing financial concerns. A Family Guide to Wills, Funerals & Probate is an essential guide for someone planning an estate or for a family confronted with legal & financial issues in the wake of a death. It explains wills & how they function, how to plan for probate & death taxes, planning for arrangements & negotiating with funeral directors, settling assets & closing the estate, & much more. Also included are: * Sample documents, such as a will, living will, uniform donor card, & letter of authority * Tables explaining state laws & regulations * State requirements covering wills & funeral practices * Alternatives to funerals * How to assign guardianships for your children * Tips on avoiding estate taxes.Hughes, Theodore E. is the author of 'Family Guide to Wills, Funerals, and Probate How to Protect Yourself and Your Survivors', published 2001 under ISBN 9780816045518 and ISBN 0816045518.