With the gift and estate tax exemption amount at $12.92 million for 2023, only a small percentage of families are subject to federal estate tax. While that’s certainly a relief, state estate tax also must be considered in estate planning. Although many states tie their exemption amounts to the federal exemption, several states have exemptions […]Continue reading
The executor’s role is critical to the administration of your estate and the achievement of your estate planning objectives. So, your first instinct may be to name a trusted family member as executor. However, that might not be the best choice. Duties of an executor Your executor has a variety of important duties, including: Arranging […]Continue reading
Some assets pose more of a challenge than others when it comes to valuing and accounting for them in an estate plan. Take, for instance, an art collection. If you possess paintings, sculptures or other pieces of art, they may represent a significant portion of your estate. Here are a few options available to address […]Continue reading
Setting up an investment account for your minor child can be a tax-efficient way of saving for college or other expenses. And one of the simplest ways to invest on your child’s behalf is to open a custodial account under the Uniform Gifts to Minors Act (UGMA) or Uniform Transfers to Minors Act (UTMA). These […]Continue reading
Granted, a QTIP trust is an odd sounding name for an estate planning technique. Nevertheless, it can be a valuable strategy, especially if you’re currently in a second marriage. The QTIP moniker is an acronym for the technical term of “qualified terminable interest property.” Essentially, the trust provides future security for both a surviving spouse […]Continue reading
Portability helps minimize federal gift and estate tax by allowing a surviving spouse to use a deceased spouse’s unused gift and estate tax exemption amount. Currently, the exemption is $12.92 million, but it’s scheduled to return to an inflation-adjusted $5 million on January 1, 2026. Unfortunately, portability isn’t automatically available; it requires the deceased spouse’s […]Continue reading
For years, life insurance has played a critical role in estate planning, providing a source of liquidity to pay estate taxes and other expenses. It’s been particularly valuable for business owners, whose families might not have the liquid assets they need to pay estate taxes without selling the business. Because the federal gift and estate […]Continue reading
Few estate planning subjects are as misunderstood as probate. But circumventing the probate process is usually a good idea, and several tools are available to help you do just that. Why Should You Avoid it? Probate is a legal procedure in which a court establishes the validity of your will, determines the value of your […]Continue reading
When it comes to estate planning, one of the most complex and often misunderstood aspects is estate taxes. Understanding estate taxes and how they can affect your estate plan is crucial to protecting your assets and ensuring that your loved ones are cared for after you’re gone. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to […]Continue reading
When it comes to securing your family’s future and ensuring that your assets are distributed according to your wishes, an effective estate plan is vital. Many people believe that estate planning is reserved for the wealthy or the elderly. However, everyone can benefit from a well-structured estate plan, regardless of age or financial status. An […]Continue reading
