Probate in Florida: Common Probate Assets

One of the duties of a personal representative in probate in Florida is to distribute probate assets to beneficiaries.  Probate assets, according to Florida law, are those that the deceased owned only in his or her name at death, or that the deceased co-owned as long as there is no mandated succession of ownership at death. 

Since it can sometimes be difficult to determine which assets are probate assets, it's best to consult with an estate attorney in Fort Myers. 

Examples of Probate Assets in Florida

Common probate assets include: 

• an investment account or bank account in the deceased's name, excluding an account payable or transferable to another individual or entity upon death;
• an individual retirement account, annuity contract, or life insurance payable to the estate of the deceased, but not payable to any specific beneficiary; and
• real estate in the deceased's name or in the name of the decedent and another individual as tenants in common (excluding homestead property), but no real estate in the deceased's name and anyone else's name as joint tenants with rights of survivorship. 

When you meet with an estate attorney in Fort Myers, he or she can explain many more assets that are indeed probate assets, and provide valuable assistance for your estate planning.

Help From an Estate Attorney in Fort Myers is Just a Phone Call Away

Fort Myers estate attorney Matthew A. Linde understands firsthand the importance of careful estate planning and the complexities of financial legal matters, such as probate, tax litigation and guardianship. For help with probate in Florida, contact our Fort Myers office to schedule a one-on-one meeting with a professional who can answer your questions – 239-939-7100 or 888-643-6514.