Congress passed a new tax law just before leaving for the holidays. The new law temporarily doubles the estate, gift, and GST exemption. The law increases the standard deduction and limits deductions for state and local taxes. Read the article to find out more about the new law and how it will impact you. [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 future. [Read More]
Basics of Estate Planning: Portability vs. Credit Shelter Trust
Portability can work well in some situations. But, there are many reasons setting up a credit shelter trust instead might be better in some situations. This article examines several reasons a credit shelter trust may result in a better outcome for the client. Read on to learn more. [Read More]
Basics of Estate Planning: Portability
What is “portability” and how is it elected? This article discusses these topics and explains some shortcuts that can be taken when filing a return only for portability. [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. [Read More]
Tax Reform and the Estate Tax
There’s a Republican blueprint for tax reform. Learn the general provisions of the plan and the uncertainties in it. [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. [Read More]
Basics of Estate Planning: IRAs
IRAs are complex assets to handle in an estate plan. There are tax issues during life and after death. Read this article to find out more. [Read More]
How Tax Reform Could Impact Various Families
Learn how the Republican blueprint for tax reform would impact different families from an estate planning perspective. [Read More]
Basics of Estate Planning: Privacy and Estate Planning
Privacy is important, especially in today’s world. Learn how estate planning can enhance or reduce your privacy. Read on to find out more. [Read More]
( By appointment only )