What Assets Avoid Probate in California?

Many assets pass outside probate entirely, based on how they are held rather than their value. Understanding this often tells a family whether they even need a probate case.

Common non-probate assets

• Property held in a revocable living trust, handled by the successor trustee.
• Real estate or accounts held in joint tenancy with right of survivorship.
• Bank and brokerage accounts with payable-on-death or transfer-on-death designations.
• Retirement accounts and life insurance with named beneficiaries.
• Community property passing to a surviving spouse via a spousal petition.
• Homes with a recorded transfer-on-death deed.

What usually does require probate is real property titled solely in the decedent's name with no trust, co-owner, or beneficiary designation. Reviewing how each asset is titled is the fastest way to know what, if anything, must go through court.

General information. Not legal advice.