Serving Our Seniors Magazine Oct - Dec 2024

DON'T LET YOUR LIFE SAVINGS BE DIMINISHED BY THE HIGH COST OF PROBATE OR DESTROYED FROM THE EVER INCREASING COST OF LONG-TERM CARE . BRUMBAUGH LAW FIRM CAN HELP YOU PROTECT YOUR LEGACY Probate is a costly process that can drain a significant portion of your estate. At Brumbaugh Law Firm we handle numerous probate cases and see firsthand how it impacts families. Many people are unaware of the high costs and the alternatives available. It’s heartbreaking to see a person’s Will intended to distribute assets equally, yet fail due to probate. Let’s address some common misconceptions and help you avoid unnecessary expenses and ensure your wishes are honored. FALSE BELIEF #1: I HAVE A WILL SO MY ASSETS WILL AVOID PROBATE. TRUTH: If an asset passes through the Will, the assets will go through probate. You should think of your Will as a fancy letter to the probate judge giving instructions to the judge on who you want the court to appoint to be in charge (your executor) and who you want your assets to go to once the debts are paid. FALSE BELIEF #2: MY WILL CONTROLS WHERE ALL MY ASSETS PASS UPON MY DEATH. TRUTH: A will only controls assets solely in your name without named beneficiaries. Adding a child as a joint owner can expose assets to their legal issues and unintended tax consequences. Avoid the staggering costs of probate, which can drain $4,000 to $8,000 from a $100,000 estate. With a little planning, you can ensure your assets reach your loved ones, shield them from creditors and divorce, and sidestep costly probate. It’s simpler than you think! Please call us to schedule a CONSULTATION to discuss ways to avoid probate. If you want to go further than just avoiding probate, we can discuss ways to protect your assets from the high cost of long term care. TOSCHEDULE ACONSULTATIONCALL 419-504-6116 Want to know more about Probate? Call & Request Guide to Probate: Useful Tips! BRUMBAUGH LAW FIRM - SANDUSKY, OHIO 44870 Michael L. Brumbaugh Founder and Attorney 7