It’s important for estate planning attorneys to stay up on the latest developments and techniques. The American Academy of Estate Planning Attorney held its semi-annual conference in Atlanta recently. Read on to learn more about the topics discussed at that cutting-edge conference. Staying Current on Estate Planning … [Read more...]
You Never Know: Planning for the Unexpected
This article examines the deaths of two people who died from doing very typical things. You never know what risks might be around the corner, even in seemingly safe endeavors, so you should be prepared. The article looks at the elements of a basic plan. You Never Know: Planning for the Unexpected … [Read more...]
Kiddie Tax is Worse Than Ever
The Kiddie Tax can apply to the unearned income of children. Read on to learn if this tax applies to you or your children. Also, learn ways to avoid the Kiddie Tax. Kiddie Tax is Worse Than Ever … [Read more...]
What is a GST Trust?
A Generation-Skipping or “GST” trust can be a good way to keep assets out of the taxable estate of a beneficiary and yet still allow them to be used for the beneficiary’s benefit during life. Read on to learn more about this type of trust and whether it might make sense for you. What is a GST Trust? … [Read more...]
Planning is Critical
It’s always important to have a plan. This is particularly true in estate planning. Did you know if you die without a Will (intestate), your state law dictates who gets your property and makes decisions for you? Read on to learn more about a heart-breaking story of someone who didn’t plan ahead. The consequences will devastate you. Planning is Critical … [Read more...]
When and Where You Die Matters
Where you die matters. While you’ll pay the same federal estate tax no matter where you die, 1/3 of the states have a separate estate or inheritance tax. The most populous state, California, is the latest state to consider adding a state estate tax. Read on to learn more. When and Where You Die Matters … [Read more...]
Making Trusts More Flexible
Trusts can be drafted to be quite flexible. This article examines several ways you can add flexibility to your trust. This added flexibility will increase the usefulness of your trust. Making Trusts More Flexible … [Read more...]
Trust Protectors Add Flexibility
Trusts can be drafted to be quite flexible. This article examines how Trust Protectors can add flexibility to your trust. This added flexibility can increase the usefulness of your trust. Trust Protectors Add Flexibility … [Read more...]
Modifying an Irrevocable Trust
Believe it or not, Irrevocable trusts often can be modified. They can be modified under the Uniform Trust Code or a state law decanting. Read on to learn more about how a modification of a trust can help. Modifying an Irrevocable Trust … [Read more...]
Beneficiary Designations, etc., Aren’t a True Substitute for a Trust
There are a variety of means to transfer your assets at death. Options that are often considered the "simple" route include: TOD (Transfer on Death), POD (Pay on Death), beneficiary designations, and joint tenancy. However, these modest methods can present complications down the road. They also lack certain benefits that a trust contains. Read on to learn more about how Beneficiary Designations, etc., Aren’t a True Substitute for a Trust … [Read more...]
