Navigating probate court after a loved one's passing can be a lengthy and expensive process, often costing thousands in attorney and court fees—funds that could otherwise benefit your heirs. This bestselling guide reveals the most effective strategies to bypass the probate process, including: - Designating payable-on-death beneficiaries for financial accounts - Jointly owning property - Utilizing transfer-on-death deeds for real estate - Establishing a living trust - Selecting the appropriate beneficiaries for IRAs, 401(k)s, and other retirement plans - Exploring probate shortcuts for small estates Fully updated, this edition incorporates the latest state laws regarding probate avoidance and addresses how recent changes to federal retirement distribution rules impact estate planning.