Indianapolis, IN asked in Estate Planning and Probate for Indiana

Q: I am executor of my brother's estate. I am also his legal guardian. He is still living but is 91 years old. He has a

cash only estate of about $250,000. All his money is in bank accounts in which I am listed as a co-owner. He has a will. When he passes can I then distribute his money to the beneficiaries listed on his will or will probate be necessary?

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1 Lawyer Answer
Nina Whitehurst
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Answered
  • Estate Planning Lawyer
  • Crossville, TN

A: Probate will be necessary if he has not already designated death beneficiaries for his bank and brokerage accounts. That would have been done by signing forms at the bank and with the broker.

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