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Many factors go into retirement decisions. This article examines some of those factors. Being financially prepared is one aspect. Having your estate planning in order is another. But, being socially and psychologically ready for retirement are yet other aspects which people often don’t consider. Be ready for your next phase of life, this article will help you get there.Retirement: It’s not Just About the Money … [Read more...]
6 Important Estate Planning Considerations – Part 2: Long-Term Care
Many considerations must be addressed in an estate plan, not just who gets whatever’s left after your death. Long-Term Care expenses are an ever-increasing concern. Your estate plan should consider how those expenses would get paid. This article looks at several ways to plan for those expenses.6 Important Estate Planning Considerations – Part 2: Long-Term Care … [Read more...]
Basics of Estate Planning: Powers of Appointment – Part 2
Trusts can be very flexible instruments. One of the ways to add flexibility is by using powers of appointment. This article will examine the different types of powers of appointment and how that can impact taxation. Basics of Estate Planning: Powers of Appointment – Part 2 … [Read more...]
Basics of Estate Planning: Powers of Appointment – Part 1
Trusts can be very flexible. One of the ways to add flexibility is by using powers of appointment. This article will examine what a power of appointment is and how it may be used to add flexibility to a trust. An upcoming article will examine the tax consequences of powers of appointment. Basics of Estate Planning: Powers of Appointment – Part 1 … [Read more...]
Basics of Estate Planning: Privacy and Estate Planning
Privacy is important, especially in today’s world. Learn how estate planning can enhance or reduce your privacy. Read on to find out more. Basics of Estate Planning: Privacy and Estate Planning … [Read more...]
Basics of Estate Planning: Advising Clients on Selecting Fiduciaries
Blog Author: Stephen C. Hartnett, J.D., LL.M. (Tax), Director of Education, American Academy of Estate Planning Attorneys, Inc.This is another in a series of blogs on the basics of estate planning.Often, one of the most difficult choices for a client to make is the selection of people to make decisions for them. These fiduciaries may have great control over the client’s affairs, typically at times when the client would be most vulnerable or already gone.Let’s take a look at the … [Read more...]
No Charitable Deduction in 2018?
The tax bills passed by the House and Senate would eliminate deductibility of state income tax and nearly double the standard deduction, dramatically reducing the number of people who would benefit from itemizing their deductions. As a result, most people would get no tax benefit from their charitable contributions. This article examines how a Donor Advised Fund could allow donors to make a contribution this year, getting a tax benefit, and then release the funds to charities in the … [Read more...]
QDRO: Not Just for Divorce Anymore
Transferring an ERISA account, like a 401(k), from one spouse to another can have substantial tax benefits, by delaying Required Minimum Distributions or avoiding early withdrawal penalties. However, one cannot simply transfer an account from one spouse to another under most circumstances without triggering adverse tax consequences. A Qualified Domestic Relations Order or “QDRO” avoids those adverse consequences. While a QDRO is most commonly used in a divorce context, divorce is not a … [Read more...]
Would You Prefer a Charitable Deduction This Year?
Perhaps you would prefer to take a charitable deduction this year. Maybe you have higher income this year, or the reduced ability to take a deduction next year. A donor advised fund may make sense for you. A donor advised fund allows a deduction this year, even though distributions will be made to public charities in future years. Read on to learn more about a donor advised fund.Would You Prefer a Charitable Deduction This Year? … [Read more...]
Special Accounts for People with Special Needs
ABLE accounts provide tax benefits and flexibility to disabled people. ABLE accounts are available to those disabled before age 26. Read on to learn more about ABLE accounts and how they can be used with a Special Needs Trust for maximum advantage.Special Accounts for People with Special Needs … [Read more...]
