Senators Sanders and Whitehouse have introduced legislation in the Senate which would significantly alter the Estate Planning landscape. It would dramatically change the tools we use to plan for our … [Read more...] about Tax Proposals Could Alter Estate Planning Landscape
CRT: Best Tool for Proposed Tax Changes?
Tax proposals would increase capital gains rates, among other things. These proposed changes could make a Charitable Remainder Trust look even better. A Charitable Remainder Trust can earn the donor … [Read more...] about CRT: Best Tool for Proposed Tax Changes?
The Role of the Estate Planning Attorney
Clients often come to an Estate Planning attorney with specific ideas in their minds. The attorney’s role is to counsel them regarding their plan, not just to draw up documents to accomplish it. Read … [Read more...] about The Role of the Estate Planning Attorney
“Last Will and Testament” Origin
Why do you have a “Last Will and Testament.” Even Estate Planning attorneys are unlikely to know the etymology of the term. It was the subject of a recent question on “Jeopardy.” Read on to learn … [Read more...] about “Last Will and Testament” Origin
Pandemic Relief for Employers
The pandemic has been difficult for many of us, including some Estate Planning attorneys. Sometimes it’s difficult to follow all the news. But, there’s little-known pandemic relief for employers … [Read more...] about Pandemic Relief for Employers
How to Dispose of “Stuff”
Clients are often most concerned about how to dispose of their tangible personal property, i.e., their “stuff.” Often even wealthy clients are most concerned with the things around them rather than … [Read more...] about How to Dispose of “Stuff”
Using Disclaimers to Achieve Client Goals: Double Disclaimers
Disclaimers can be a good way of getting assets where you want them to go. If the disclaimer is a “qualified disclaimer,” the client isn’t treated as having made a taxable gift. Sometimes a “double … [Read more...] about Using Disclaimers to Achieve Client Goals: Double Disclaimers
Using Disclaimers to Achieve Client Goals
Disclaimers can be a good way of getting assets where you want them to go. If the disclaimer is a “qualified disclaimer,” the client isn’t treated as having made a taxable gift. This can be a great … [Read more...] about Using Disclaimers to Achieve Client Goals
Beneficiary Designations and the SECURE Act: Eligible Designated Beneficiaries
Beneficiary designations can be deceptively simple. But their simplicity is sort of like an iceberg. Danger lurks beneath those tranquil waters, both for the client and the attorney. Designations for … [Read more...] about Beneficiary Designations and the SECURE Act: Eligible Designated Beneficiaries
Beneficiary Designations and the SECURE Act: Prior Designations
Beneficiary designations can be deceptively simple. But their simplicity is sort of like an iceberg. Danger lurks beneath those tranquil waters, both for the client and the attorney. Designations for … [Read more...] about Beneficiary Designations and the SECURE Act: Prior Designations