A recent New Jersey Appellate Division decision should remind you to keep track of the designations of all non-probate assets to ensure that they pass in accordance with your testamentary intentions.
Parents typically do not want their surviving children to fight over their inheritances after the parents die. Careful planning may reduce the risk of foreseeable in-family conflicts.
In an era where living to 100 is becoming increasingly likely, financial planning for retirement takes on a new level of complexity. The Yahoo Finance article, “Retirement Planning: Here’s How Much You’ll Need To Save If You Live to 100”, offers a comprehensive look at this challenge, highlighting the need for a radical shift in our approach to life and financial planning. Understanding the Longevity Revolution The “longevity revolution” concept discussed by Laura L. Carstensen, director of the Center for Longevity, suggests a significant societal shift. This revolution impacts various aspects of life, including health care, personal finance and retirement…
Discussing estate planning with others can be uncomfortable and easily avoided, yet this is an important part of financial planning.
When it comes to estate planning, many people think of a will as the go-to document for ensuring that their assets are distributed according to their wishes after they pass away. However, a living trust can often be a more effective tool for many individuals, offering benefits that a will cannot provide. In this article, we’ll explore why you should consider a living trust to be a cornerstone of your estate planning strategy. What Is a Living Trust? A living trust is a legal document that places your assets into a trust for your benefit during your lifetime and then…
The sweeping tax overhaul enacted in 2017, known as the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA), provided a number of income and estate tax reductions and changes.
It’s nobler to give than to take, the saying goes, and giving assets to loved ones while you’re still alive is a great way for them to enjoy the benefits right away—and for you to delight in seeing them enhance their lives.
When it comes to donating, many people seek not only the personal satisfaction of helping others but also the potential financial benefits, including possible tax deductions. Words such as deduction, charitable giving, charitable contribution, charity, charitable tax deduction and rules for giving often come up in these discussions. Understanding these terms and the laws surrounding charitable donations can help individuals and businesses make informed decisions about their charitable contributions, while taking advantage of any available tax deductions. In this article, we delve deep into charitable giving laws, exploring various facets and rules that govern tax deductions for charitable contributions. Whether…
Navigating the intricacies of your financial legacy can be a daunting task. Understanding the nuances of the estate tax and implementing robust estate tax planning strategies can ensure that your beneficiaries enjoy the fruits of your labor without being overburdened by tax liabilities. What Is Estate Tax and Who Is Subject to Estate Tax? The estate tax, often called the death tax, is a tax levied on the total value of a person’s estate upon their death. If the estate exceeds certain thresholds, it becomes subject to federal estate tax, potentially diminishing the wealth passed on to heirs.
Assembling legal documents pertaining to your estate is key to ensuring that your final wishes are carried out.
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