Federal estate taxes have been a source of funding for the federal government almost since the U.S. was founded. In 1797, Congress instituted a system of federal stamps that were required on all wills offered for probate [...]
When an individual dies, the executor is faced with an important decision that has the potential to impact the taxes owed by the estate and its heirs.1 The executor will have the option of valuing the estate on [...]
Financial Documents Healthcare Documents An estate plan can be an important but overlooked part of a financial plan. Creating important healthcare and estate documents can help to alleviate stress for your loved ones in the case of [...]
If you are one of the many Americans who are in a second marriage, you may need to revisit your estate strategy1 and your estate management checklist. Unlike a typical first marriage, second marriages often require special [...]
Only 45% of adults have a will or other estate documents in place, which may not be entirely surprising.1 No one wants to be reminded of their own mortality or spend too much time thinking about what might [...]
When the rules of the game change, tactics should follow in response to the new landscape. While estate tax exemptions have ridden an uncertain roller coaster in recent years, the rules appear to be stabilizing with the [...]
Actor Lee Marvin once said, “As soon as people see my face on a movie screen, they [know] two things: first, I’m not going to get the girl, and second, I’ll get a cheap funeral before the [...]
Do you have a will? A will enables you to specify who you want to inherit your property and other assets. A will also enables you to name a guardian for your minor children. Have you taken [...]
