Advance My ShareHow to Pay for Expenses While Waiting for Probate in California
The death of a loved one is emotionally draining. The financial stress that comes with waiting for probate can make a difficult time even harder. While your inheritance is tied up in court for a year or more, your own bills don't stop. So, what can you do?
The Financial Squeeze of the Probate Process
Many heirs are surprised by the immediate financial pressures they face. You might need money for:
Urgent Bills
Mortgage payments, car payments, medical bills, or high-interest credit card debt that can't be put on hold.
Estate-Related Costs
You may need to pay for travel to deal with estate matters, cover the costs of maintaining the decedent's property (like a mortgage or utilities), or pay for funeral expenses.
Lost Income
Taking time off work to grieve or manage estate responsibilities can result in a loss of income.
Missed Opportunities
You might miss out on a chance to invest, start a business, or make a down payment on a home because your funds are inaccessible.
"It feels like your life is on pause, but your bills aren't. That's the reality for thousands of heirs in California every year."
Exploring Your Options
When faced with this financial gap, heirs typically consider a few options. Let's look at the pros and cons of each.
1. Using Personal Savings
Pros
- • You don't have to borrow money or involve a third party.
Cons
- • Many people don't have enough savings to cover their expenses for 12-18 months.
- • Draining your emergency fund can leave you vulnerable to other financial shocks.
2. Taking Out a Personal Loan or Using Credit Cards
Pros
- • Can provide immediate cash.
Cons
- • This creates personal debt with high interest rates.
- • You'll have to make monthly payments, adding more financial pressure.
- • It also requires a good credit score and proof of income, which isn't an option for everyone.
3. Getting a Probate Loan
Pros
- • Specifically designed for heirs waiting on probate.
Cons
- • As we discussed in our Advance vs. Loan article, these are risky.
- • They are full-recourse loans, meaning you are personally liable for the debt even if the inheritance falls through.
- • They come with interest, credit checks, and monthly payments.
The Smartest Solution: An Inheritance Advance
For most heirs, the best solution is one that provides immediate cash without creating debt or personal risk. That solution is an inheritance advance.
An inheritance advance solves the financial squeeze by giving you a portion of your inheritance now. Because it's a sale, not a loan, it has none of the downsides of the other options:
No Debt Created:
You are not borrowing money.
No Monthly Payments:
You never have to pay us from your own pocket.
No Credit Check:
Your personal financial situation is not a factor.
No Risk:
If the inheritance amount changes, you owe nothing. The risk is ours.
End the Financial Stress Today
Stop letting the slow probate process dictate your financial life. An inheritance advance gives you the freedom to pay your bills, reduce your stress, and use your money when you actually need it.
Ready to take control of your finances?
Get Your Free Quote NowRelated Articles
Inheritance Advance vs. Probate Loan: Which is Right for You?
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Read Article →The California Probate Process: A Step-by-Step Guide for Heirs
Feeling lost in the probate maze? This guide breaks down the complex California probate process into understandable steps.
Read Article →Stop Waiting, Start Living
Don't let probate delays control your financial future. Get a free, no-obligation quote for an inheritance advance and take control of your finances today.
Probate Case Number e.g., 30-2024-00123456-PR-CJC