Do All Wills Go Through Probate?
February 15, 2026
One of the most common estate planning questions is: If I have a will but no trust, does my estate automatically go through probate? In most cases, the answer is yes — but not always. The full picture depends on what you own, how it’s titled, and your state’s laws.
What Is Probate?
Probate is the court-supervised process of:
- Validating a will
- Appointing an executor
- Paying debts and taxes
- Distributing assets to beneficiaries
If you have a will but no trust, the will usually must be filed with the probate court after death.
Does Having a Will Avoid Probate?
No. A will does not avoid probate.
A will simply tells the court:
- Who should receive your assets
- Who should serve as executor
- Who should care for minor children
The probate court still oversees the process.
When Probate Is Required (Even With a Will)
Your estate will typically go through probate if:
- You own real estate in your name alone
- You have bank accounts without a named beneficiary
- You have investment accounts titled only in your name
- You own personal property of significant value
If those assets are not held in a trust or do not have designated beneficiaries, probate is generally required.
When Probate May NOT Be Required
Not all assets go through probate. Some pass automatically outside of court:
Beneficiary-Designated Accounts
- Life insurance
- Retirement accounts (IRA, 401(k))
- Payable-on-death (POD) bank accounts
These go directly to the named beneficiary.
Joint Ownership
Assets owned jointly with rights of survivorship pass automatically to the surviving owner.
Small Estate Procedures
Many states offer simplified probate (or avoid it entirely) if the estate falls below a certain dollar threshold.
How a Trust Changes Things
A properly funded revocable living trust allows assets titled in the trust’s name to bypass probate entirely. Instead of court supervision, the successor trustee distributes assets according to the trust terms. However, assets not transferred into the trust may still require probate.
Why Some People Want to Avoid Probate
Probate can be:
- Time-consuming (often 6–18 months or longer)
- Public (court records are generally accessible)
- Costly (court fees, attorney fees, executor fees)
For some families, probate is manageable. For others — especially with complex or larger estates — avoiding probate provides privacy and efficiency.
The Bottom Line
If you don’t have a trust, your will typically goes through probate — unless your assets are structured to transfer automatically outside of court. The real question isn’t just “Do I have a will?” It’s “How are my assets titled?” Protect your loved ones by planning your estate. At Rhodes Law, P.A. our experienced team will guide you through the advantages and disadvantages of various trust options, helping you make informed decisions about your estate plan and proper funding. Contact us today at 321-610-4542 to learn how we can help safeguard your legacy.
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