What Is Probate in Minnesota and How Can You Avoid It?

Probate is the legal process required to transfer assets when someone dies without a trust or beneficiary designations.

The Problems With Probate

Minnesota probate:

• Is public

• Can be expensive

• Often takes 6–12+ months

• Freezes assets during court administration

Families frequently face delays accessing bank accounts and selling property.

How to Avoid Probate in Minnesota

You can keep your estate out of probate by:

• Creating a Revocable Living Trust

• Naming beneficiaries on accounts

• Using Transfer-on-Death deeds

• Holding property jointly (when appropriate)

The Biggest Mistake

Many people think having a will avoids probate. It does not. A will actually guarantees probate.

Avoiding probate saves your loved ones time, money, and unnecessary court involvement.