How do I avoid probate?

You can avoid probate by using tools that pass assets directly to your heirs outside the court process. Common methods include a funded living trust, joint ownership with right of survivorship, payable-on-death and transfer-on-death designations, and named beneficiaries on retirement accounts and life insurance. The more of your assets that pass this way, the less is left to go through probate. A little planning now saves your family time, money, and hassle.