Without a will, how much is the surviving spouse entitled to?
  1. In cases where there is a spouse and children of the decedent, all of which are children of the spouse, the spouse receives 100% of the estate.
  2. In cases where there is a spouse and children of the decedent, some of whom are not children of the spouse, the spouse receives the first 25% (but not less than $50,000 nor more than $200,000) plus one half of the balance. The children receive all other estate assets.
  3. In cases where there is a spouse and parent(s) but no children, the spouse receives the first 25% (but not less than $50,000 nor more than $200,000) plus one half of the balance. The parent(s) receive all other estate assets.

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1. What is a Surrogate?
2. What is it meant to probate?
3. Are wills registered?
4. How do I begin the probate process?
5. Do I need an appointment?
6. What if there is no will?
7. What is the purpose of a surety bond and why is it required?
8. How do I get released from the surety bond?
9. How is distribution made if there is no will?
10. Without a will, how much is the surviving spouse entitled to?
11. What paperwork is necessary for a small estate when the decedent died without a will?
12. What information should I collect?
13. What is a Surrogate short certificate?
14. How many Surrogate short certificates will I need?
15. I am Power of Attorney; does this mean I can access the estate assets?
16. Where can I get more death certificates?
17. What are the basic obligations of the Executor or Administrator?
18. Is it necessary to notice all beneficiaries and next of kin that the will was probated?
19. Where does the Executor / Administrator obtain the funds to pay debts?
20. Do I have to pay all claims?
21. Am I entitled to compensation for acting as the Executor or Administrator?
22. How do I get a will out of a safe deposit box?
23. What if the will is not properly executed?
24. What is a formal accounting?
25. Do I need a formal accounting?
26. Does a divorce revoke the entire will?
27. Can I prepare my own will?
28. Where should I keep my will?
29. Do I still need a will even if I have a small estate?
30. What is a living trust?