Trusts have many uses. Perhaps the most important is that they can provide privacy at death. Garry Shandling is thought to have used a trust to provide privacy for those he left behind. Trusts for Privacy … [Read more...]
Estate Planning is Too Important to Procrastinate
Only 44% of Americans have even a simple Will. We procrastinate for several reasons. Learn those reasons and how to push past them. Learn, briefly, why planning is important. Estate Planning is Too Important to Procrastinate … [Read more...]
Donor Advised Funds: IRS Issues New Ruling
A new ruling addresses whether a donor advised fund may satisfy charitable pledges by the donor/advisor. It now may do so, as long as certain requirements are met. Read the article to learn more about how donor advised funds are a great tool for charitable giving. Donor Advised Funds: IRS Issues New Ruling … [Read more...]
No Charitable Deduction in 2018?
The tax bills passed by the House and Senate would eliminate deductibility of state income tax and nearly double the standard deduction, dramatically reducing the number of people who would benefit from itemizing their deductions. As a result, most people would get no tax benefit from their charitable contributions. This article examines how a Donor Advised Fund could allow donors to make a contribution this year, getting a tax benefit, and then release the funds to charities in the … [Read more...]
A Special Option for Special Kids
When planning for children with special needs, it takes special care to preserve their eligibility for public benefits. An ABLE account is a new way to preserve eligibility while gaining tax advantages. Read on to learn more about this new tool in planning for those who were disabled by age 26. A Special Option for Special Kids … [Read more...]
Sager Family Shows Perils of Blended Families
Blended families require special planning. Communication of those plans is key to keep frictions to a minimum. This story examines the controversy in the family of sports reporter Craig Sager, who died in December 2016. Sager Family Shows Perils of Blended Families … [Read more...]
Would You Prefer a Charitable Deduction This Year?
Perhaps you would prefer to take a charitable deduction this year. Maybe you have higher income this year, or the reduced ability to take a deduction next year. A donor advised fund may make sense for you. A donor advised fund allows a deduction this year, even though distributions will be made to public charities in future years. Read on to learn more about a donor advised fund. Would You Prefer a Charitable Deduction This Year? … [Read more...]
Basics of Estate Planning: Powers of Appointment – Part 1
Trusts can be very flexible. One of the ways to add flexibility is by using powers of appointment. This article will examine what a power of appointment is and how it may be used to add flexibility to a trust. An upcoming article will examine the tax consequences of powers of appointment. Basics of Estate Planning: Powers of Appointment – Part 1 … [Read more...]
Basics of Estate Planning: Powers of Appointment – Part 2
Trusts can be very flexible instruments. One of the ways to add flexibility is by using powers of appointment. This article will examine the different types of powers of appointment and how that can impact taxation. Basics of Estate Planning: Powers of Appointment – Part 2 … [Read more...]
If You Become Incapacitated, Who Will Manage Your Money?
Understandably, most people don’t want to think about the possibility of becoming incapacitated, particularly at a young age. It can happen, and if it does someone will have to manage your money. Whether or not you decide who will manage your money depends on whether or not you take the time to plan ahead. Many people make the mistake of assuming that a spouse, child or parent will be legally allowed access to their assets in the event of incapacity simply because of the relationship. This is … [Read more...]
