Full Description
Protect your family's future
If you're among the millions of Americans without an estate plan, you're not alone—and you're probably not sure where to start. The third edition of Wills & Trusts Kit For Dummies cuts through the confusion and gives you a clear path forward. This isn't just another legal manual. It's your roadmap to protecting what you've built and making sure your loved ones are taken care of—without the stress, guesswork, or unnecessary costs.
From basic estate planning fundamentals to modern challenges like digital assets and cryptocurrency, this book covers everything you need to know. It translates intimidating legal concepts into language you can actually understand, and if you're still overwhelmed, a step-by-step strategy guide helps you start right where you are. You'll also get immediate access to online forms, worksheets, and templates you can actually use—not just read about.
Create a will or trust that suits your specific situation (because one-size-fits-all doesn't fit all families)
Learn about developing technologies such as AI-powered estate planning tools, electronic wills, and online notarization
Handle your digital legacy—from social media accounts to Bitcoin wallets
Build a court-ready estate plan using downloadable templates and worksheets
Wills & Trusts Kit For Dummies takes the anxiety out of estate planning and puts you in control. Your family's future is too important to leave to chance. Start protecting what matters most—today.
Contents
Introduction 1
Part 1: Getting Started with Your Will or Trust 7
CHAPTER 1: Ensuring That Your Last Wishes Are Honored 9
CHAPTER 2: Making Crucial Decisions 29
CHAPTER 3: Gathering Pertinent Information 47
CHAPTER 4: Planning Your Bequests 59
CHAPTER 5: Providing for Your Children and Dependents 83
CHAPTER 6: Dipping into Your Pocket: The Tax Man (and Others) 93
Part 2: Everything You Need to Know about Wills 113
CHAPTER 7: Writing and Signing a Will 115
CHAPTER 8: Navigating the Land Mines 135
CHAPTER 9: When You Already Have a Will 155
CHAPTER 10: Estate Administration: What Happens in Probate Court 167
Part 3: Trust Me! How Trusts Work 181
CHAPTER 11: The Anatomy of a Trust 183
CHAPTER 12: Dead or Alive: Picking Your Trust 197
CHAPTER 13: When You Already Have a Trust 219
Part 4: Carrying Out the Intent of Your Will and Trust 229
CHAPTER 14: Planning for Your Incapacity 231
CHAPTER 15: Those Cushy Retirement Funds 255
CHAPTER 16: Life Insurance: Making Sure It Doesn't Backfire 269
CHAPTER 17: Your Castle: How It's Owned Makes a Huge Difference 281
Part 5: The Part of Tens 295
CHAPTER 18: Ten Common Will Mistakes 297
CHAPTER 19: Ten Reasons to Have a Trust 305
CHAPTER 20: Ten Tax Traps to Avoid When Planning Your Estate 313
Part 6: Appendixes 321
APPENDIX A: State Signing Requirements 323
APPENDIX B: State Inheritance Taxes 343
APPENDIX C: Estate Planning Worksheet 347
Index 371
