In states that have “elective share statutes,” a surviving spouse is legally entitled to a certain percentage of the deceased's estate, even if that spouse has attempted to disinherit or to provide a lesser bequest, or gift, under the will. In “separate property” states, an elective share statute is likely to be in effect. If the estate in question is valued at $50,000 or less, the elective share is likely to be the actual amount of the net estate.
“Testamentary substitutes” are removed from particular assets that would otherwise pass to the surviving spouse. Assets passing by will or through intestacy could cause a reduction in the elective share amount as well. Totten trusts, such as Payable-On-Death Bank Accounts (PODs), Retirement or joint bank accounts, gifts causa mortis ("gifts made by the decedent in contemplation of death,”) U.S. savings bonds, jointly held property, and gifts or transfers that were made approximately one year prior to death, are some examples of testamentary substitutes.
If a gift was made about one year prior to death, yet involves medical or educational expenses, then the gift may not qualify as a true testamentary substitute. With regard to PODs, the spouse, offspring, or grandchildren will be named as beneficiaries. The funds of a POD are only distributed upon the decedent’s death. Testamentary Trusts are listed in the will until the designated property passes to the trust upon the testator’s death.
Generally, a gift causa mortis is only active upon the decedent’s expected death and is typically revocable. Moreover, certain elements must exist to create a valid gift causa mortis. These include an intent to create “an immediate transfer of ownership,” valid delivery, acceptance of the gift by the donee, and the donor’s “anticipation of imminent death.” There are also certain circumstances by which gifts causa mortis are not valid. For example, if the donee passes away before the donor, it is unlikely that a property interest was transferred. Gifts causa mortis are also taxed as if the testator had listed the gifts in his or her will.
In such cases, testamentary substitutes are generally put back into the net estate total to determine the elective share amount that the surviving spouse will collect. The aforementioned may vary if property is held jointly, as joint tenants or otherwise, because the spouse may have a right of survivorship in the property. Estate planning attorneys are aware of all the ins and outs of testamentary substitutes and how they may affect the distribution of your assets. It is useful, if not essential, to consult with a knowledgeable attorney when making arrangements regarding testamentary substitutes.