Portability Doesn’t Happen Automatically
Portability isn’t automatic; even nontaxable estates must file a tax return to elect it.
November 13, 2025
A Cross-Border Strategy is Needed for Estate Planning with Assets Overseas
Assets, heirs and homes in multiple countries require a plan that respects more than one legal system.
November 11, 2025
Pour-Over Will is a Safety Net for Your Estate Plan
A pour-over will catches assets that miss your trust, keeping your plan intact and your heirs out of court where possible.
November 4, 2025
Keep Certain Assets Out of a Trust to Avoid Probate
Living trusts are powerful estate planning tools, but not every asset belongs in one. Knowing which property to exclude prevents complications and protects your legacy.
October 30, 2025
Preparing an Estate Plan when Children Live in Another State
Whether it’s because of work, school or a marriage, it isn’t uncommon for a parent to have children and other loved ones scattered across the United States.
October 7, 2025
Combining Philanthropy with Estate Planning
Tax-efficient charitable giving allows you to support causes that matter to you, while reaping a financial benefit.
September 30, 2025
When Your First Choice of Trustee Declines
Even the most trusted family member or friend may decline to serve as trustee. The role can be demanding, involving complex legal responsibilities, financial oversight and ongoing reporting obligations. Some individuals may lack confidence in managing investments or navigating government benefits for people with special needs. Others may be concerned about the time commitment or potential conflicts with other beneficiaries. Understanding the reasons for a refusal can help you adjust your approach. Sometimes the concern is about specific duties, which may be alleviated by offering professional assistance or co-trustee arrangements. In other cases, it may be a firm decision based…
September 22, 2025
How the 2025 Tax Law Impacts Your Estate Plan
Since the law is so wide-ranging, it can disrupt even the most well-prepared plans.
September 10, 2025
How Wealth is Distributed in Blended Families
This summer’s passing of Ozzy Osbourne was mourned by heavy metal fans and caught the attention of estate planning attorneys for lessons about how wealth is distributed among members of a blended family. Whether you liked his music or not, Osbourne left an estate estimated to be worth $230 million plus future royalties, reports a recent article from Think Advisor, “What Wealthy Families Can Learn From a Rock Star’s Estate.” There’s no estate battle for now. However, only time will tell if the Osbourne family faces issues like those of many blended families. There’s no simple playbook for these situations,…
September 2, 2025
Choosing the Right Estate Planning Attorney in Texas: Questions to Ask Before You Hire
When it comes to estate planning, choosing the right attorney can make all the difference. Your estate plan isn’t just about documents—it’s about protecting your
September 1, 2025