A revocable trust is treated the same as the individual for most purposes. But for some narrow purposes it can be treated differently. Read on to learn more. … [Read more...] about Revocable Trusts Are Not Always Treated the Same as an Individual
Roth IRAs Can Be a Great Planning Strategy: Basics
Roth IRAs can be a great planning strategy. They can save taxes and help in many ways. Read on to learn more. … [Read more...] about Roth IRAs Can Be a Great Planning Strategy: Basics
Trust Distribution Standards May Be Very Broad
Trustee distribution standards could be very broad. “Health, education, maintenance, and support” is such a standard, which has its origin in tax regulations. Read on to learn more. … [Read more...] about Trust Distribution Standards May Be Very Broad
Estate Planning Conference Discusses “For the 99.5% Act,” SECURE, and More
The Heckerling conference, the largest conference for Estate Planning in the country, occurred recently. Many of the thought leaders in Estate Planning and Elder Law got together and discussed recent developments and new strategies. Read on to learn more. … [Read more...] about Estate Planning Conference Discusses “For the 99.5% Act,” SECURE, and More
ABLE Accounts Complement Special Needs Trusts
ABLE accounts are a nice, flexible way to supplement the usefulness of a Special Needs Trust. But certain limits apply. Read on to learn more. … [Read more...] about ABLE Accounts Complement Special Needs Trusts
Plan Now for the Incredible Shrinking Exclusion
There is a great deal of legislation pending and much is uncertain. But this much is certain, the estate tax exclusion will go down by half beginning 2026 under current law. Now is the time to plan for your clients and yourself. Read on to learn more. … [Read more...] about Plan Now for the Incredible Shrinking Exclusion
How to Dispose of “Stuff”
Clients are often most concerned about how to dispose of their tangible personal property, i.e., their “stuff.” Often even wealthy clients are most concerned with the things around them rather than their financial accounts. What’s the best way to handle the “stuff”? Read on to learn more. … [Read more...] about How to Dispose of “Stuff”
“Last Will and Testament” Origin
Why do you have a “Last Will and Testament.” Even Estate Planning attorneys are unlikely to know the etymology of the term. It was the subject of a recent question on “Jeopardy.” Read on to learn more. … [Read more...] about “Last Will and Testament” Origin
CRT: Best Tool for Proposed Tax Changes?
Tax proposals would increase capital gains rates, among other things. These proposed changes could make a Charitable Remainder Trust look even better. A Charitable Remainder Trust can earn the donor an income tax deduction upfront and defer gains on its sale of assets. Read on to learn more. … [Read more...] about CRT: Best Tool for Proposed Tax Changes?
Using Disclaimers to Achieve Client Goals
Disclaimers can be a good way of getting assets where you want them to go. If the disclaimer is a “qualified disclaimer,” the client isn’t treated as having made a taxable gift. This can be a great result for the client in the right circumstances. Read on to learn more. … [Read more...] about Using Disclaimers to Achieve Client Goals
