A Thanksgiving Guide to Protecting Your Family
As the turkey is carved and stories are shared, take a moment to talk about topics that give lasting reassurance, like estate planning and probate. Here’s a step-by-step overview to help you support your family through every season:
- Filing the Will & Death Certificate
After someone passes, the probate process begins by filing the will and death certificate with the Surrogate’s Court. If you’ve already had “the talk” during Thanksgiving, your family will be prepared for this first step and know where important documents are kept.
- Court Review & Executor Appointment
The court then validates the will and officially appoints an executor—or an administrator if there’s no will—to settle the estate. Choosing these roles and sharing your wishes now makes this stage easier for your loved ones later.
- Notifying Heirs, Beneficiaries, and Creditors
Transparency is key, so New Jersey and New York law requires that heirs and beneficiaries be notified. Talking about this around the Thanksgiving table helps ensure everyone is on the same page and prevents future surprises.
- Inventory & Appraisal of Assets
Identifying all assets, from the family home to treasured keepsakes, is the next step. Estate planning conversations during the holidays make it easy to share where these items are and clarify any special wishes.
- Pay Debts, Expenses, and Taxes
The executor pays outstanding debts and taxes so assets can pass smoothly to beneficiaries. Preparing for this ahead of time helps avoid delays, while giving thanks for the ability to protect what matters most.
- Distribute Assets
Once everything’s settled, assets are distributed according to the will or state law. Thanksgiving is a time to reinforce family bonds and make sure your intentions are clear to all loved ones.
- Closing the Estate
The process wraps up by filing a final accounting with the court. With heartfelt conversations and proper planning, closing the estate becomes a way to honor both family values and cherished memories.
A Thanksgiving Reminder: Discussing estate planning, probate, wills, and guardianships doesn’t have to dampen the festivities. A lighthearted chat can provide clarity, comfort, and unity for your family—giving everyone something extra to be thankful for.
If you’d like guidance, the Law Offices of Barry E. Janay, PC can help you navigate every step of the New Jersey and New York probate process and customize your estate plan to fit your family’s unique needs. Let us help you turn holiday gratitude into lasting peace of mind for your loved ones.
Happy Thanksgiving!
