Estate Planning Blog

The sweeping tax overhaul enacted in 2017, known as the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA), provided a number of income and estate tax reductions and changes.

For taxpayers who stress over annual Required Minimum Distributions and are also inclined to charitable giving, Qualified Charitable Distributions or QCDs have been a useful tool to accommodate both relief over federal income tax angst and the desire to donate.

Understanding marital trusts is crucial for couples looking to secure their financial future and provide for the surviving spouse tax-efficiently. This article is a guide to marital trusts, how they work and their advantages and disadvantages. With the potential to safeguard assets and ensure that they reach the intended beneficiaries, marital trusts can be an effective part of a comprehensive estate plan, particularly for those in a second marriage or a blended family. What Is a Marital Trust? A marital trust is a type of irrevocable trust and is crafted to benefit…

It’s nobler to give than to take, the saying goes, and giving assets to loved ones while you’re still alive is a great way for them to enjoy the benefits right away—and for you to delight in seeing them enhance their lives.

Business owners work hard to build their assets and establish their companies. Therefore, it’s essential to ensure that these assets are protected for the business’s continuity and the owner’s peace of mind. One way of safeguarding these assets is by utilizing a living trust. This article discusses how a living trust can protect your business assets. What Is a Living Trust? A living trust is a legal entity created to hold assets, often for the benefit of certain individuals. It’s called a “living” trust because it’s established while you’re alive, unlike a testamentary trust, which comes into effect upon your…

Generational wealth is a topic of immense importance. It represents the financial legacy one generation leaves for the next, enabling families to build a stable foundation for their descendants. However, preserving this wealth for future generations requires careful planning and management. This article delves into the intricacies of preserving generational wealth and the strategies wealthy families employ to ensure that their assets last for generations. What Is Generational Wealth? Generational wealth refers to assets passed down from one generation to the next. This can include property, money, stocks, businesses and other valuable resources. Many wealthy families aim to grow their…

When it comes to donating, many people seek not only the personal satisfaction of helping others but also the potential financial benefits, including possible tax deductions. Words such as deduction, charitable giving, charitable contribution, charity, charitable tax deduction and rules for giving often come up in these discussions. Understanding these terms and the laws surrounding charitable donations can help individuals and businesses make informed decisions about their charitable contributions, while taking advantage of any available tax deductions. In this article, we delve deep into charitable giving laws, exploring various facets and rules that govern tax deductions for charitable contributions. Whether…

Navigating the complexities of estate planning is particularly crucial for those with substantial assets. High-net-worth individuals and families often face unique challenges in securing their legacy, managing estate taxes and ensuring that their wishes are honored. Understanding high-net-worth estate planning strategies can make a significant difference in preserving wealth for future generations. In this article, we delve deep into the nuances of estate planning for high-net-worth individuals, emphasizing why it’s indispensable and how proper estate planning can secure one’s financial future and intentions. Why Is Estate Planning Crucial for High-Net-Worth Individuals? High-net-worth individuals often have diverse investment portfolios, real estate…

Navigating the intricacies of your financial legacy can be a daunting task. Understanding the nuances of the estate tax and implementing robust estate tax planning strategies can ensure that your beneficiaries enjoy the fruits of your labor without being overburdened by tax liabilities. What Is Estate Tax and Who Is Subject to Estate Tax? The estate tax, often called the death tax, is a tax levied on the total value of a person's estate upon their death. If the estate exceeds certain thresholds, it becomes subject to federal estate tax, potentially diminishing the wealth passed on to heirs.

Reviewing your will is something that many people know they should do but often put off. However, various life circumstances and legal changes can significantly impact your estate planning needs. Ensuring that your estate plan, including your will and other estate planning documents, reflects your current situation is essential for peace of mind and securing your beneficiaries’ future. Why Is it Crucial to Review Your Will Regularly? Your will is not a static legal document. As your life changes, so also might your wishes regarding how your assets are distributed after your death. It’s common for relationships, financial circumstances and…