Many people think of estate planning as a “one-and-done” task — something you complete and file away. But an estate plan should evolve as your life and finances and relevant laws change. An outdated…
Irrevocable trusts provide various estate planning benefits, such as reducing estate taxes and helping to ensure assets are distributed as you wish. But estate planning isn’t a “set it and forget it” process. Families,…
A vacation home, rental property or future retirement residence may play an important role in your long-term plans. However, if you hold properties across multiple states, it can create estate planning issues that can…
The gift tax annual exclusion allows you to transfer up to $19,000 (for 2026) per beneficiary gift-tax-free, without tapping your $15 million (for 2026) lifetime gift and estate tax exemption. You can double the…
It’s not uncommon for family members to contest a loved one’s will or challenge other estate planning documents. But you can take steps now to minimize the likelihood of such challenges after your death…
A Crummey trust provides a key tax benefit of an outright gift without some of the downsides. Although the mechanics can seem technical, the concept is straightforward. And the benefits can be significant for…
Integrating health care decisions into your estate plan is important because it ensures they are thoughtful, informed and reflective of your values. When you make decisions in advance, you can clearly outline preferences for…
Owning assets with your adult child as “joint tenants with right of survivorship” may seem like a simple way to streamline your estate plan. However, doing so can carry important legal, tax and practical…
A living trust is one of the most versatile estate planning tools available. It offers a streamlined way to manage and transfer assets while maintaining privacy and control. Unlike a traditional will, a living…
