Two common ways to avoid probate on your bank accounts are holding the account jointly or designating a beneficiary for the account. You may be able to use a Small Estate Affidavit to have the property transferred to you.When you open a bank account for the estate, the account name must indicate that it is an estate account and not your personal account. Wills often include guardianship wishes for dependents, such as children and pets. A trust, on the other hand, isn't limited to death. Yes, but only if you are named on the account, either as a joint account holder or a beneficiary. The bank holding the account will release the funds to you. How do I open an estate account? Just make an appointment at your local financial center and an associate will be happy to assist you. To put it simply, dying intestate means you don't have a will.