Peace of Mind Planning with Yanowitz Law Firm

What Is a Probate Inventory?If you’re serving as a personal representative, you’ll need to prepare something called a probate inventory. In this episode, we explain what the inventory is, when it’s due, and what information it must include — from account statements to real estate appraisals.

Learn how to properly document estate assets and stay compliant during the probate process.

When will I get my inheritance money? It’s the question every beneficiary asks — and one that personal representatives and trustees dread: When am I going to get my money? In this episode, we explain why estate distributions can take time, what legal and tax hurdles need to clear first, and how to protect yourself from liability if you’re managing an estate or trust.

Digital assets like Bitcoin, NFTs, and crypto wallets don’t come with a “forgot password” button — and without proper planning, they can vanish forever when you pass away. In this episode, we explain how to include cryptocurrency in your estate plan, protect your keys, and ensure your loved ones can access your digital wealth securely.

Learn how to safeguard your crypto legacy before it’s too late.

What is an estate account, and why is it important in probate? In this episode, we explain how the personal representative opens an estate account using court documents and a new EIN, and how this account is used to collect, manage, and distribute the deceased person’s assets. Learn how the estate account keeps everything organized—covering expenses, paying creditors, and ensuring beneficiaries receive their proper share.

After the initial probate hearing, the personal representative begins the work of settling the estate. In this episode, we walk through what happens during the four-month creditors’ period, how claims against the estate are handled, and what steps come next—like paying debts, filing tax returns, and distributing assets to beneficiaries. Learn how this stage of probate ensures everything is properly accounted for before the estate can be closed.

Wondering what to expect at your probate hearing? In this episode, we walk through what actually happens during the court process—often held over Zoom—including how group hearings work, what the judge looks for, and how you become officially appointed as personal representative of the estate. Learn what to expect when your case is called and what comes next once the court signs the order.

Opening probate can feel overwhelming, but it starts with gathering the right information. This episode breaks down what’s needed to open a probate case—assets, debts, family details, and required notices—and walks through what happens before the first court hearing.

Debt, taxes, and probate don’t just “go away” when someone passes — and relying on joint ownership or a simple will often isn’t enough.

In this episode, Common Estate Planning Myths That Can Cost Your Family, Yanowitz Law Firm breaks down the misconceptions we see most often: what really happens to debt after death, why probate is still required in many situations, and the risks of oversimplified planning tools.

With straightforward explanations and practical examples, this episode brings clarity to issues that can have real financial and emotional consequences. Whether you’re creating your own plan or helping a loved one, understanding these myths — and the truth behind them — can make the entire process smoother, safer, and far less stressful.

Ready to take the next step? Connect with us @Yanowitzlaw.com

Filing an estate tax return can feel daunting—but it doesn’t have to be. In this episode, we walk through the entire Minnesota estate tax process, from determining if a return is required to requesting a closing letter. Learn about key deadlines, valuation rules, and what information you’ll need to gather. With clear guidance, you’ll understand each step and how the right legal support can make the process smoother and less stressful.

Life changes—and so should your estate plan. In this episode, we cover the key moments that call for a plan review, from marriage and divorce to new children, property, or health changes. Learn why keeping your plan current ensures your wishes still align with your life and the law. At Yanowitz Law Firm, we help you not just create your estate plan—but keep it working for you.