The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act temporarily doubled the amount which can be given free of tax. However, that amount reverts to the permanent, undoubled amount in 2026. The estate tax ordinarily includes prior taxable gifts and then applies the exclusion to the total. However, in 2026 or later, this could result in a tax on amounts which weren’t taxable when gifted. This issue is the “clawback.” New Proposed Regulations resolve this issue. Read on to learn more.
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How Are Trusts Taxed?
Trusts are useful vehicles both during life and after death. This article examines how trusts are income taxed. Grantor trusts are taxed to the grantor, regardless of whether the income is distributed to them. Nongrantor trusts are separate taxpaying entities but get a deduction for distributions to beneficiaries. Read the article to learn more.
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Naming a Trust as Beneficiary of an IRA
Whom should you name as the beneficiary of your IRA or Qualified Plan? Sometimes, it can be best to name a trust for your intended beneficiary. Read on to see the protections a trust can offer that a direct designation of the individual would not. [Read More]
Prenuptial Agreements Can Provide Remarriage Protection
Requiring a prenuptial agreement before your spouse remarries can provide peace of mind and protect your spouse, your children, and their inheritance. If you leave your assets in a trust for your spouse and children, you can require your spouse obtain a prenuptial agreement before remarriage. This can protect your loved ones. Read on to find out more about prenuptial agreements. [Read More]
Estate Planning is About More Than Taxes
Estate Planning addresses many concerns, not just taxes. It can protect beneficiaries from their own creditors, provide divorce and remarriage protection, and protect the benefits of children with special needs. Learn more about how Estate Planning can help protect your beneficiaries by providing privacy and other benefits. [Read More]
Aretha Franklin Died Intestate: What Does It Mean for Her Family?
Aretha Franklin died intestate. Intestacy has definite drawbacks. Read on to see what this means for her family, financially and in other ways. Aretha was the Queen of Soul, but her lack of planning caused consequences she did not consider. [Read More]
Planning to Enjoy Thanksgiving
Planning ahead is the loving thing to do. Whether it is for a Thanksgiving meal or for your estate plan, planning is imperative. This article points out the various consequences of your failure to plan, including the increased likelihood for family discord. Read on to learn how planning ahead can help achieve the desired results. [Read More]
Estate Planning is for You, Not Just Your Parents or Grandparents
If you’re young and unmarried, do you really need an estate plan? The answer is “yes,” if you care what happens to you and your stuff. Read on to find out how an estate plan can help someone who is young and unmarried. [Read More]
Special Accounts for People with Special Needs
ABLE accounts provide tax benefits and flexibility to disabled people. ABLE accounts are available to those disabled before age 26. Read on to learn more about ABLE accounts and how they can be used with a Special Needs Trust for maximum advantage. [Read More]
Planning for the Client Moving Overseas
In this increasingly mobile world, clients often spend periods of time living in other countries, or even retiring overseas. How does one address estate planning in this situation? This article explains what to do. [Read More]
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