Advance planning works best when you understand the rules before they take effect. On July 4, 2025, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) was signed into law, bringing a number of tax changes that will impact individuals, families, and business owners beginning in 2025 and 2026. Some provisions create new opportunities, while others eliminate familiar benefits. … Read more
When protecting your legacy, even a small oversight in your estate plan can have significant consequences. From outdated beneficiary designations to missed tax-saving opportunities, common estate planning mistakes can create confusion, trigger unnecessary taxes, or even lead to family disputes. Here are 5 Estate Planning Mistakes That Could Cost Your Family. 1. Overlooking Non-Probate Assets … Read more
Any time a new administration takes the Oval Office, clients call upon Estate Planning attorneys to provide assurances and guidance regarding what’s going to happen. As one administration leaves and another enters, many clients become nervous about the potential changes the incoming administration wants to make. With this new administration, the more things change, the more they stay the same.
As the Internal Revenue Service prepares for the upcoming tax year, they have announced significant adjustments to account for inflation in 2025. These comprehensive changes will affect virtually every taxpayer in the United States, from individuals and families to businesses and estates. For instance, a single filer earning $ 50,000 a year will see their … Read more
The IRS has announced the updated Federal Estate and Gift Tax exemption amounts for 2025. Currently, in 2024, the federal estate and gift tax exemption is $13.61 million per person, allowing a married couple to transfer up to $27.22 million free of federal estate tax. In 2025, these amounts will increase slightly to $13.99 … Read more
Some individuals create a Revocable Trust, pour-over Will, Property Power of Attorney, Health Care Power of Attorney, Living Will, Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act Authorization Act and think that those documents alone constitute a complete Estate Plan that will protect their family. While the documents themselves represent a solid beginning, the documents don’t cover every asset or concern. A qualified Estate Planning attorney will consider all and provide advice regarding all the elements necessary for a complete Estate Plan.
Despite knowing that they should have an estate plan, many individuals give excuses for failing to create an Estate Plan. They may rely upon advice from seemingly well-intentioned individuals that if they do not have a taxable estate, they don’t need a plan, or that each state has its own set of rules regarding distribution that gives assets to beneficiaries upon death. Some folks go so far as to suggest methods to avoid probate without truly considering the impact of those suggestions. This article explores the most commonly cited reasons for failing to create an Estate Plan and addresses the invalidity of these excuses.
As the spooky season transitions into the season of Thanksgiving, it’s important to remember our why. Most of us do what we do for our families and loved ones. As the holiday season approaches, do something that will have a lasting impact on your family. Create a comprehensive Estate Plan. Make sure that you take the time to consult a qualified Estate Planning attorney who can provide advice regarding all the elements necessary to complete your plan.
In the realm of estate planning, staying ahead of evolving tax laws is essential for safeguarding your wealth and securing a prosperous future for your family. With the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 bringing historically high exemption levels, now is the time to take proactive steps to maximize your financial legacy. However, these … Read more
Leaving money to charity in your estate plan can be a fulfilling way to create a lasting legacy while also potentially reducing estate taxes. Understanding how to effectively incorporate charitable giving into your estate planning is crucial. Consulting with an estate planning attorney and a financial advisor is vital. They can help structure your charitable … Read more