will

When a loved one passes away without a will, settling their estate can quickly become a nightmare. If you were promised something but never got it in writing, you might find yourself in a difficult position when you try to claim it as yours.

A tiny minority of families could get by without making a will. Changes are yours isn't one of them.

Money you receive inherit doesn't normally get split up in a divorce, but there are important steps you have to take first.

You collected the benefit from your mom's life insurance policy, but now your uncle is demanding that you use that money to settle the credit card balance in your mom's estate. It's time to set things straight with him.

Think your will is complete? Even the most carefully crafted ones often miss necessary elements that could leave your family in limbo. If you want it to be a peaceful ride, continue reading.

If a parent dies without a will and the surviving step-parent refuses to discuss the distribution of the estate with you, there are steps you can take to protect yourself.