Peace of Mind Planning with Yanowitz Law Firm

Intentionally defective grantor trusts are one of the most powerful estate-planning strategies available to affluent families—and in this episode, we break down exactly how they work. After decades of guiding clients through wills, trusts, and probate, we’re sharing why this unique type of irrevocable trust can create major long-term tax advantages. You’ll learn how a grantor can continue paying i...

Planning ahead can make all the difference for the people you love. In this episode, we explore practical, real-world tips for organizing your assets so your family can navigate the future with clarity and confidence. After decades of helping families through probate and estate settlement, we’ve seen exactly what makes things easier—and what doesn’t. From dealing with unused timeshares to simplify...

In this episode, Yanowitz Law Firm explains the essential documents that make up a complete estate plan. From wills and trusts to choosing who will manage your assets, we break down the core purpose behind estate planning—making sure your assets go where they’re intended and ensuring the right people are in charge. We also walk through the additional documents that support a well-rounded plan, inc...

In this episode, Yanowitz Law Firm explains why your power of attorney becomes effective the moment you sign it—and why that matters. We break down what a power of attorney is, what it allows your agent to do, and why Minnesota’s durable power of attorney is such a powerful tool while you’re living. You’ll learn the key differences between a durable and a springing power of attorney, plus real-lif...

Planning your estate is one of the most important things you can do for your family—but it’s also easy to get wrong. In this episode, we share the top five will and trust mistakes families make—and how to avoid them. From DIY disasters to outdated documents, accidental probate, lost assets, and simple procrastination, we break down real-life examples and practical tips to help you protect what mat...

Finding the right estate planning attorney can make all the difference for your family’s future. In this episode, we explain what to look for when choosing an attorney who truly understands wills, trusts, and probate. Learn why specialization matters, how the right guidance can save on estate taxes and avoid probate hassles, and what it means to work with a firm that’s organized, tech-savvy, and h...

Many people think the name on a tax statement shows who owns a property — but it doesn’t. This episode explains why only the deed and recorded title determine legal ownership. We’ll also cover what it means if a property is in a trust, owned by multiple people, or missing your name on the tax statement. Learn what really matters when it comes to property ownership and estate planning. Yanowitz Law...

Think estate planning is just for the wealthy or retired? Think again. This episode explores why every adult—no matter their age or assets—should have an estate plan. Learn how tools like a will, healthcare directive, and power of attorney can help you stay in control of your future and protect the people and things that matter most.

Wondering when probate is actually required? In this episode, we unpack the $75,000 threshold, what really counts as a “probate asset,” and how joint ownership and beneficiaries can change everything. Plus, find out when a simple affidavit might save you a trip to court.

Buying or selling a home is one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll ever make—and it’s not always as simple as it seems. In this episode, we explain why having a real estate attorney can protect your interests, prevent costly mistakes, and ensure a smooth closing. Learn how an attorney helps buyers, sellers, and homeowners avoid red flags and feel confident every step of the way.

Thinking about disinheriting your spouse? In Minnesota, it’s not that simple. This episode breaks down the legal concept of the elective share —a rule that can give your spouse a portion of your estate, even if they’re left out of your will or trust. Learn how marriage length affects what they can claim, when a prenuptial or postnuptial agreement can change that, and what you need to know when pla...

Family loans can get complicated — fast. This episode explains what makes an intra-family loan a true loan (and not a gift in disguise). Learn the key legal requirements, from written promissory notes and minimum AFR interest rates to structuring loans through a revocable trust to avoid probate. We also cover what happens if a loan isn’t repaid before death and how to address it in your will or tr...

When a loved one passes away, tax questions often come up right away. In this episode, we break down what families need to know about income and estate tax deadlines after death. She explains how final income tax returns work, when an estate might need to file a separate fiduciary return, and the key rules for Minnesota estate taxes—including the $3 million threshold and important filing timelines...

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 re...

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 properl...

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...

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 th...

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.

For physicians, estate planning is about far more than passing down assets — it’s about protection, privacy, and true peace of mind. In this episode, Yanowitz Law Firm explains why trusts often serve doctors better than traditional wills . You’ll learn how trust-based planning strengthens incapacity protection, helps families avoid costly court delays, shields sensitive information from the public...

Not all probates are the same — and choosing the right type can make all the difference. In this episode, Understanding the Three Types of Probate in Minnesota , Yanowitz Law Firm breaks down the three main probate paths: informal , formal unsupervised , and formal supervised . You’ll learn how each process works, when it applies, and what it means for timelines, real estate transfers, court invol...