Most Americans are not subject to the federal estate tax at its current exemption levels. For 2009, each person can pass $3.5 million to heirs estate-tax free at their death. However, if your estate has the potential to be affected by the estate tax, you have some planning opportunities right … [Read more...]
Ten Gifting Traps to Avoid
Lifetime gifting can be a powerful estate planning tool. Transferring property during your life, instead of at your death, has many advantages. Making lifetime gifts can be desirable for personal reasons (e.g., to help your children or other family members) or for financial reasons (e.g., saving … [Read more...]