How to Minimize the (Voluntary) Federal Estate Tax with Portability
Most people may be surprised to learn that the federal estate tax is considered by some to be voluntary. Estate planning attorneys used to say, “You only pay if you ...
The Deaths of Gene Hackman and His Wife
When investigators entered the home of legendary actor Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Machiko Arakawa, in a gated community outside Santa Fe, New Mexico, on February 26, 2025, they ...
Corporate Transparency Act Update
Under the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA), which took effect January 1, 2024, many business entities including small limited liability companies (LLCs) and partnerships are required to file reports with the ...
WHAT HAPPENS TO MY TWITCH ACCOUNT WHEN I DIE?
In the digital age, our online presence extends beyond social media. Platforms like Twitch, where users engage with live-streamed content, present unique considerations when it comes to estate planning. Do ...
The Revocable Living Trust
There are many benefits to a revocable living trust that are not available in a will. An individual can choose to have one or both, and an attorney can best ...
Can Artificial Intelligence Programs Write Basic Estate Planning Documents?
With the increased coverage of artificial intelligence (AI) and all of the applications it can have in our everyday lives, some people may wonder whether an AI program can create ...
Estate Plan Lessons from DeMuth v. Commissioner
Lifetime gifts are a popular way to reduce estate and inheritance taxes. Currently, only estates worth $12.92 million or more are subject to the federal estate tax. To lower their ...
The Life and Legacy of Jimmy Buffett
Jimmy Buffett died on September 1, 2023, at age 76 after a diagnosis of Merkel cell carcinoma (skin cancer) four years earlier. He was a renowned singer-songwriter, film producer, businessman, ...
What Happens to My Leased Car If I Die Before the Lease Term Ends?
After a house, a car is often the second-most valuable piece of property a person owns. About 15–20 percent of new vehicles are leased rather than purchased and financed. Leasing ...
How Far in Advance Can I Begin My Estate Planning?
You can create your estate plan at any time, but many people choose to begin the process sooner rather than later. Why? Because you never know when life-changing medical or ...