Does a Joint Account Avoid Probate? Rules, Risks & Alternatives
Yes, a joint account with rights of survivorship (e.g., “Joint Tenants with Rights of Survivorship” or JTWROS) typically avoids probate. When one owner dies, the surviving owner(s) automatically inherit the funds without court involvement. Exceptions: For most cases, joint accounts with survivorship rights bypass probate. How Joint Accounts Work? A joint account is owned by…