Legal Question in Wills and Trusts in Kentucky

How should I set up inheritance funds received from my parents?

My parents recently died and I will be receiving about $400K of inheritance monies. My question is ''When I recieve this money, should I put it in a separate account or a joint account with my wife?


Asked on 7/17/02, 8:46 am

2 Answers from Attorneys

Bryan LeSieur LeSieur Law Office

Re: How should I set up inheritance funds received from my parents?

Whether you put the funds in a joint acount is up to you, but you should be aware that you may lose the status of "non-marital" for those funds if you and your spouse end up in a divorce proceeding. If you set up an account in your name only, those will will be traceable as your non-marital property. As far as what happens at your death you can designate where you want the money to go in your Will.

Read more
Answered on 7/17/02, 10:56 am
Hugh Wood Wood & Meredith

Re: How should I set up inheritance funds received from my parents?

I am writing you from the Caribbean, because your question is - well -- one folks ask often. Unless you want to make your wife a GIFT OF 50% OF THE MONEY, put the money in your name. The money came from your parents to you. That is not considered her property. However, if you open a joint account and dump the money in there -- welll -- volia, at least half is hers. (It can be argued that it is not, but if you dont want it to go to her right now, dont put it in a joint acocunt). HCW

Read more
Answered on 7/18/02, 7:10 am


Related Questions & Answers

More Probate, Trusts, Wills & Estates questions and answers in Kentucky