When we learned of the original provisions in the Build Back Better Act, many individuals panicked, rushing to complete Estate Planning or seeking to undo certain aspects of their estate plan. As the Build Back Better Act has evolved, many wondered if they should have waited before making significant changes to their estate plan. No matter what happens with the Build Back Better Act, an estate plan centered on long-term goals will serve you well. My friend and colleague Tereina Still, an estate … [Read more...] about The Sky Isn’t Falling
Legal Education
Living in a Digital World and the Importance of Planning for Cryptocurrency
Cryptocurrency has become increasingly popular as a form of investment in recent years. More and more established financial institutions recognize cryptocurrency and allow its use. As cryptocurrency becomes mainstream, it’s important to consider estate planning implications for holding this digital asset. My friend and colleague, attorney Tereina Stidd, an estate plannng expert, has some useful tips. Read on to learn more. … [Read more...] about Living in a Digital World and the Importance of Planning for Cryptocurrency
Tax Planning for 2022
Planning is important for your income taxation during life as well as for any estate tax at death. Even though 2022 is just starting, it’s not too early to think about planning for whatever it may bring your way. My friend and colleague Steve Hartett, an estate planning expert, has some thoughts. Read on to learn more. … [Read more...] about Tax Planning for 2022
Neither Age Nor Health Determines Whether You Need an Estate Plan
Most people associate Estate Planning with the elderly or very wealthy. This article by my friend and colleague, attorney Tereina Stidd, an estate plannng expert, explores situations in which Estate Planning for the young and healthy is advisable. Read on to learn more. … [Read more...] about Neither Age Nor Health Determines Whether You Need an Estate Plan
It Can Be Scary to Die Without an Estate Plan…the HORRORS of Intestacy
Many souls believe that if they lack means, they do not need an estate plan. Nothing could be further from the truth. If you die without an estate plan, your assets may not be distributed as you would wish and the results could be downright scary. My friend and colleague, attorney Tereina Stidd, an estate plannng expert, has some thoughts on this issue. Read on to learn more. … [Read more...] about It Can Be Scary to Die Without an Estate Plan…the HORRORS of Intestacy
Don’t be a Turkey – Use Your Annual Per Donee Exclusion Amount
As fall turns into winter and the holiday season arrives, it’s natural to review the year, plan for the next, and count your blessings. One of the ways to plan for the next year, and perhaps to address some outstanding concerns in this one, is to consider making annual per donee exclusion gifts. This article by my friend and colleague, attorney Tereina Stidd, an estate plannng expert, will explore annual exclusion gifting and demonstrate how gifts of seemingly modest amounts can be a powerful … [Read more...] about Don’t be a Turkey – Use Your Annual Per Donee Exclusion Amount
How Using Specific Bequests Could Cost Beneficiaries their Inheritance
Parents often decide to leave one child a specific asset and provide an equalizing cash bequest to the other. This article by my friend and colleague Tereina Stidd, an estate planning expert, explores how specific bequests may provide unintended results. Read on to learn more. … [Read more...] about How Using Specific Bequests Could Cost Beneficiaries their Inheritance
The Importance of Insuring Real Estate
Transferring real estate to a trust has become a widely used tool in estate planning. Unfortunately, it’s easy to overlook important aspects of the transfer that lead to unintended consequences. My friend and colleague Tereina Stidd, an estate planning expert, reveals how, with careful planning, you can avoid these traps. Read on to learn more. … [Read more...] about The Importance of Insuring Real Estate
Charitable Planning in Times of Crisis
During times of uncertainty, we tend to feel helpless. This article by friend and colleague Tereina Stidd, an estate planning expert, explores how charitable giving gives us a sense of purpose in trying times. Read on to learn more. … [Read more...] about Charitable Planning in Times of Crisis
The Kiddie Tax is No Child’s Game
If you set up a trust or other investment vehicle for your child, that child could incur taxes at a rate much higher than anticipated. The Kiddie Tax was enacted to prevent parents from transferring investments to the name of their child or children to take advantage of that child’s lower tax rate. My friend and colleague Tereina Stidd, an estate planning expert, has commented on this tax. Read on to learn more. … [Read more...] about The Kiddie Tax is No Child’s Game
