Probate avoidance is a common goal in estate planning. With this in mind, many people turn to so-called “simple solutions” like payable on death (POD) accounts and joint tenancy.
While these methods can bypass probate, they come with significant drawbacks and limitations. This blog will explore these issues and point you toward an estate planning device that can provide a more suitable solution.
Understanding POD Accounts
A payable on death (POD) account allows you to name a beneficiary who will receive the funds in the account upon your death. While this seems like a simple and effective way to avoid probate, it has several limitations.
Drawbacks of POD Accounts
Limited Scope: POD accounts only apply to the funds in the specific account. They do not cover other assets like real estate, investments, or personal property.
No Control After Death: Once you pass away, the beneficiary receives the funds outright. You cannot control how or when they use the money.
No Protection from Creditors: If the beneficiary has debts, creditors can claim the funds in the POD account. This lack of protection can undermine your intentions.
Potential for Conflicts: If you have multiple beneficiaries, using POD accounts can lead to disputes over asset distribution. This can create tension and conflict among your heirs.
Understanding Joint Tenancy
Joint tenancy involves owning property with one or more individuals. Upon your death, your share of the property automatically transfers to the surviving joint tenant(s). While this avoids probate, it also has several significant limitations.
Drawbacks of Joint Tenancy
Immediate Ownership Transfer: The surviving joint tenant receives full ownership of the property immediately. You cannot dictate how or when the property should be used or distributed.
Risk of Co-Ownership: Co-owning property means sharing control with others. This can lead to disagreements over property management and use.
No Asset Protection: If a joint tenant has debts, creditors can place claims on the property. This can jeopardize your intentions and the property’s value.
Why a Revocable Living Trust is a Better Option
A revocable living trust offers a more comprehensive and flexible solution for avoiding probate. It addresses the drawbacks of POD accounts and joint tenancy while providing additional benefits.
Benefits of a Revocable Living Trust
Comprehensive Coverage: A revocable living trust can include a wide range of assets, including real estate, investments, bank accounts, and personal property. This ensures all your assets are managed and distributed according to your wishes.
Control and Flexibility: With a revocable living trust, you can specify how and when your assets should be distributed. You can set conditions for beneficiaries, ensuring your assets are used responsibly.
Protection From Creditors: Trust assets are generally protected from the beneficiaries’ creditors after your death. This ensures your assets are preserved for their intended purpose.
Probate Avoidance: Assets in a revocable living trust bypass probate, ensuring a quicker and more private distribution to beneficiaries.
Management During Incapacity: If you become incapacitated, a revocable living trust allows a successor trustee to manage your assets on your behalf. This provides continuity and stability during difficult times.
Setting Up a Revocable Living Trust
Legal counsel is invaluable when setting up a trust. Working with an estate planning attorney ensures your revocable living trust is legally sound and tailored to your needs. We can guide you through the process and address any specific concerns you may have, but here is an overview.
Transfer Assets to the Trust
To make the trust effective, you must transfer ownership of your assets to the trust. This includes updating titles and deeds to reflect the trust’s ownership.
Designate a Successor Trustee
Choose a reliable successor trustee to manage the trust after your death or if you become incapacitated. This person should be trustworthy and capable of handling the responsibilities. You can alternately use a professional fiduciary like a trust company.
Define Distribution Instructions
Clearly outline how you want your assets to be distributed. Specify any conditions or stipulations to ensure your wishes are followed.
Regularly Review and Update the Trust
Life circumstances change, so it’s important to review and update your trust regularly. This ensures it remains relevant and effective.
Key Takeaways
While POD accounts and joint tenancy offer probate avoidance, they come with significant drawbacks and limitations. A revocable living trust provides a more comprehensive, flexible, and secure solution.
By creating a trust, you can ensure your assets are managed and distributed according to your wishes, providing peace of mind and protection for your loved ones.
Schedule a Consultation Today!
We can help you create a rock-solid plan that will facilitate smooth and efficient asset transfers to your loved ones. To schedule a consultation at our Glastonbury or Westport, CT estate planning offices, call us at 860-548-1000 or send us a message through our contact page.
