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Debunking the Myth: Why Leaving $1 to Disinherit is Not a Viable Strategy

The act of disinheriting an individual from a will or trust can be a sensitive and complex matter. A popular myth suggests that leaving someone a small amount, such as $1, can be an effective way to disinherit them. However, this strategy is fraught with legal pitfalls and may not achieve the intended result.

Here’s why you should reconsider this approach:

 
  • Ineffective Disinheritance: The nominal amount does not legally prevent the disinherited party from contesting the will. It can, in fact, serve as evidence that they were not forgotten, merely slighted, which might fuel the contest.
 
 
  • Ambiguity in Intent: A token bequest can cause ambiguity in the testator’s intent and may lead to protracted legal battles over the interpretation of the will.  Leaving a token amount can create the misconception that the person is a recognized beneficiary.
 
 
  • Stimulates Conflict:  The symbolic act of leaving $1 is often interpreted as a final insult and can cause unnecessary emotional pain and resentment among family members.  This gesture may increase the likelihood of legal challenges by disgruntled family members who may perceive it as a provocation.
 
 
  • Probate Complications: Even if the $1 bequest is not contested, it can complicate probate proceedings. The executor is required to account for this bequest, adding unnecessary complexity to the estate settlement process.

 

What Can You Do Instead That is More Effective?

 

  • Explicit Disinheritance: A more effective approach is to explicitly state in the will or trust document that an individual is being disinherited, and, if desired, include the reasoning. This clarity can reduce ambiguity and might deter potential contests.
 
 
  • Use of No-Contest Clauses: Including a no-contest clause (where permitted by law) can discourage beneficiaries from contesting the will, as they might risk losing any inheritance for bringing a contest without proper grounds.
 
 
  • Clear Communication: Openly discussing estate plans with potential heirs can prevent misunderstandings and mitigate the likelihood of a contest after the testator’s death.
 
 
  • Seek Expert Guidance: Consulting with an estate planning professional is crucial to ensure that disinheritance is handled legally and tactfully.  At GetDynasty, we know that each estate is unique, and we can offer customized advice to ensure that the testator’s wishes are honored without unintentional consequences.
 
 
The moral of the story is leaving someone $1 in an attempt to disinherit them is not advisable. It is a legally ineffective strategy that can lead to increased conflict, higher costs, and can complicate the probate process. If you’re ready to create a will or trust, or you have changes you’d like to make to an existing will or trust, click here.

 

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What is a Trust?

A Living Trust is a financial tool that lets you plan, organize, and protect your life. It’s a personal entity that allows you to add assets and plan out your inheritance. Eliminating legal battles, cost, and time spent by your loved ones. 

Think of it like a personal LLC that you put everything you own in. Except it doesn’t protect you from liability like an LLC does, it protects you from probate and conservatorship. 

Probate is the complicated court process (12-18 months) where a judge decides what happens to your assets after you die, become incapacitated, or are “deemed” incapable. Creating a living trust allows your assets to completely circumvent probate and immediately transfer to your loved ones. 

In addition to being able to name heirs (your beneficiaries), a Trust also allows you to assign someone to manage it (your successor trustee). Instead of going through probate, your Successor Trustee takes control of the Trust, handles your affairs, and distributes your assets according to your instructions. The person you select as Successor Trustee should be your most trusted person. Like a best friend or closest family member.

At Dynasty, we believe everyone should have a Living Trust. If you have children, assets, or plan to acquire assets in the future, you should create a Trust. That way when you buy your next home, open a bank or brokerage account, get startup shares, etc. – you can immediately title them in your trust.