by Christine | Nov 15, 2013 | Estate Law, Estate Tax, Inheritance Tax, Interstate Estate, State Law |
There are steps that residents of states with steep estate taxes can take–short of moving–to help minimize such bills or avoid them altogether. Although the Federal government may cast a big shadow in terms of estate taxes, don't forget those state laws lurking in...
by Christine | Nov 14, 2013 | 2013, 2014, Estate Law, Estate Tax, Gift Tax |
Starting in 2014 … the basic exclusion will go up to $5.34 million per person, from $5.25 million this year.[However,] there will be no change in the annual exclusion, which allows you to give $14,000 in cash or other assets each year to each of as many...
by Christine | Nov 13, 2013 | Elder Law, Estate Law |
Millions of Americans are managing money or property for a loved one who is unable to pay bills or make financial decisions. This can be very overwhelming. But, it’s also a great opportunity to help someone you care about, and protect them from scams and fraud....
by Christine | Nov 12, 2013 | Estate Law, Estate Planning |
Give a copy of your wills, trusts and powers of attorney (financial and health care) to anyone named or authorized to act on your behalf, and store the originals at home; otherwise, your children could have trouble getting them at the critical time. The best laid...
by Christine | Nov 7, 2013 | Estate Law, Estate Planning, Trusts |
When most people think about trust funds, they envision spoiled rich kids and wealthy families trying to dodge taxes on their piles of money. But what they might not realize is that trust funds can be an incredibly useful—even vital—tool for middle class families, as...
by Christine | Nov 6, 2013 | Elder Law, Estate Law |
“I know adult stepchildren who step up in every sense of the word, but for most of these women, disagreements with stepchildren was the most stressful aspect of providing care for the husband.” Blended families are becoming more and more common these days, making the...