Nobody wants incapacity, not for yourself and not for your loved ones. But planning for that possibility can avoid complications and increase options. The article discusses the elements of incapacity planning and the need for flexibility to do Medicaid planning. It discusses how a trust with Medicaid triggers can allow that. [Read More]
Planning for the Unexpected
This article examines the death of Charlotte Fox, one of the most famous mount climbers ever, who fell down her stairs at home. You never know what risks might be around the corner, so you should be prepared. The article looks at the elements of a basic plan. [Read More]
Planning for the International Client
Estate planning for the international client can be tricky. This article looks at the estate tax treatment of U.S. citizens and non-resident aliens. The article then looks at an example of someone who lived in the U.S. and then departed. [Read More]
6 Important Estate Planning Considerations – Part 6: Taxes
An estate plan considers many important aspects. One of the many aspects to consider is the impact of taxes. This article examines some of the many ways consideration of taxes might impact an estate plan [Read More]
Dead Hand Control: How Much is Too Much?
This article examines trying to exert control over your beneficiaries after death. Often, clients try to dictate the exact manner in which funds are used. Usually, it is a better course to give the trustee discretion. [Read More]
6 Important Estate Planning Considerations – Part 4: Beneficiary Designations
Beneficiary designations can be a simple way to pass assets at death. While beneficiary designations avoid probate, they may introduce other problems. This article shows how a revocable trust can provide a more flexible way to achieve a client’s goals. [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. [Read More]
6 Important Estate Planning Considerations – Part 5: Retirement Assets
Retirement assets may be a very large part of a person’s estate at death. It’s important to consider the income tax ramifications of naming a beneficiary, as well as protecting those assets for the beneficiaries. This article considers some of these issues. [Read More]
6 Important Estate Planning Considerations – Part 3: Your Kids
An estate plan considers not just to whom assets should go, but also how. Each beneficiary is unique and the estate plan should consider their unique situation. This article looks at a couple with three very different children and how they might leave the assets for them in three very different ways. [Read More]
Academy Event in Las Vegas Hit the Jackpot!
The Academy’s 25th Anniversary event in Las Vegas was incredible. This article discusses some of the presentations and the camaraderie at the event. The Academy inspires excellence in its members, this event showed why. [Read More]
( By appointment only )