CHARITABLE REMAINDER TRUSTS

A Charitable Remainder Trust normally is used as a strategy for converting highly appreciated assets into income producing assets, without income tax liability.  The Charitable Remainder Trust is an irrevocable trust with both charitable and non-charitable beneficiaries. The donor transfers highly appreciated…

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WITHOUT A WILL, THERE’S NO WAY

A will is a legal document that transfers what you own to your beneficiaries upon your death. It also names an executor to carry out the terms of your will and a guardian for your minor children, if you have…

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LIVING TRUSTS: A TOOL FOR THE LIVING

One of the most popular estate planning instruments today is the revocable living trust. Trusts are used to maintain control and disposition of assets after death, and some can be used to minimize the estate tax impact of property transfers….

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GIFTING STRATEGIES FOR ESTATE PLANNING

The federal government imposes a substantial tax on gifts of money or property that exceed certain levels. Without such a tax, someone with a sizable estate could give away a large portion of his or her property before death and…

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WHAT IS A LIVING WILL?

In the aftermath of the tragic case involving Terri Schiavo, interest in living wills has increased markedly. A living will expresses your wishes about being kept alive if you’re terminally ill or seriously injured. Other famous Americans have used living…

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FUNDAMENTAL QUESTIONS ABOUT ESTATE PLANNING

Many people assume estate planning is all about reducing taxes. But it’s also about making sure your assets are distributed according to your wishes both now and after you’re gone. Here are three questions to consider before you begin your…

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SELECTING AN EXECUTOR OR TRUSTEE

Whether you choose a will or a living trust, you also need to select someone to administer the disposition of your estate – an executor or personal representative and, if you have a living trust, a trustee. An individual (such…

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ESTATE SETTLEMENT ISSUES

You also should be aware of the other procedures involved in estate settlement. Here is a quick review of some of them. Your attorney, as well as the organizations mentioned, can provide more details. Transferring Property When thinking about transferring…

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DEFERRING COMPENSATION

In addition to providing qualified plans to employees, many business owners implement nonqualified alternatives in order to supplement retirement benefits. These selective benefit plans are generally offered to key employees and owners. One popular nonqualified benefit is deferred compensation. Basically,…

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CHOOSING THE RIGHT CONTINUATION PLAN FOR YOUR BUSINESS

The death of a major shareholder in a closely held corporation can seriously interrupt the continuity and profitability of the business. Surviving shareholders must struggle with how to continue the company as a profitable business with the loss of a…

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