Legal Question in Wills and Trusts in Pennsylvania

My husband died, we had no will, no stocks, bonds, just joint checking and savings account. He had a car which I am transferring to a family member soon. Is the bank accounts considered estate, or the car, that I will need to pay estate tax on?

Should I immediate change account name to protect anything?


Asked on 1/26/18, 4:15 am

1 Answer from Attorneys

Miriam Jacobson Retired from practice of law

Condolences on your loss.

It is possible that your husband's and your assets are not part of his estate, and will not require that you open an estate or pay PA inheritance tax. Just to be sure, before transferring anything, consult with a local probate/estates lawyer.

THIS RESPONSE IS NOT LEGAL ADVICE, SINCE I DO NOT HAVE ALL OF THE INFORMATION THAT WOULD BE REQUIRED, AND I DO NOT HAVE A REPRESENTATION AGREEMENT WITH YOU.

* If the answers to your question confirm that you have a valid issue or worthwhile claim, your next step should almost always be to establish a dialog with a lawyer who can provide specific advice to you. Contact a lawyer in your county or township.

* Another reason for contacting a lawyer is that it is often impossible to give a good answer in the Internet Q&A format without having more information. The unique circumstances of your situation and things that you may not have thought to mention in your question may completely change the answer. If you want to be sure that you have a complete answer to your question and an understanding of what that answer means, establish a connection with a lawyer who practices in the area of your concern.

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Answered on 1/26/18, 11:25 am


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