Legal Question in Wills and Trusts in Texas
My mom just passed away and I'm the executor of her will. My mom had me and my sister as signers on her bank accounts - is this money now part of the estate or is it our money? She has a house and car too so I'm assuming those are part of the estate. Also, is there a reason to close my mom's checking and savings account at this time or is it best to leave the money where it is for paying medical expenses, etc.
1 Answer from Attorneys
I'm not sure what you mean as "signers on her bank accounts" If the accounts are POT/TOD or JTWROS, then you can present a death certificate to the bank and close out the account. If you're just an additional signatory, then leave the account alone until after you probate the will.
You should speak with a lawyer to discuss probating her will. It's a fairly straightforward process in most instances (assuming the will was professionally done.)
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