Legal Question in Wills and Trusts in Florida

Re: How should my mother leave her condo and possessions to me?

The least expensive way is to add you to all the documents as a joint owner. The easiest way is for her to leave it to you in a will.

Re: How should my mother leave her condo and possessions to me?

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Based upon the limited information, you might consider with legal cosultation preparing a quit claim deed for the condo retitling the preoperty to you and your mom as joint tenants with right of survivorship. You could also have yourself added to the bank accounts and the like. Consult a local attorney with alll the facts and values of the assets to see how this can be done.

Re: How should my mother leave her condo and possessions to me?

You have several options. For Bank Accounts, she can go to the bank and set up her current accounts as POD (Payable on Death). She would name you as the beneficiary and upon her passing the accounts get paid to you.

For the condo, she can execute a Quit Claim Deed naming you as a Joint Tenant with Right of Survivorship (JTWROS). There is a minimial tax involved for doing this (documentary stamp tax) but it is simple to do.

For other items, the best and least expensive way is for her to start giving some of them to you now. In any and all cases, she should have a will to cover any remaining assets, including assets she may possess in the future. Lastly, think of other assets such as stocks. These can also be possessed as JTWROS. If all this is done correctly, only assets in the will are subject to probate. In Florida, probate for a small estate is generally quick and simple.

Should you have additional questions or need assistance, please feel free to contact me via email or phone at (407) 353-4728.