“Alzheimer’s, widowed stepmothers and estate crime are the three biggest causes of inheritance messes” according to estate and trust attorney Michael Hackard. It is a high bar proving lack of capacity or undue influence. Moreover, it is a low bar for one to have the capacity to sign or modify a Will (usually a higher...Read More
After a divorce, it is important to update your beneficiary designations and power of attorney for healthcare/finance. Although many are quick to update, it is imperative that you do not name your minor children as direct beneficiaries. The reason is two-fold. First, children will not be able to access funds until they reach 18...Read More
Absolutely! As of January 1, 2018, the federal estate tax exemption amount will rise to $5.6 million, up from $5.49 million in 2017. The annual exclusion amount for gifts in 2018 will increase to $15,000, which is up from $14,000 for gifts in 2017. This means that individuals can gift $15,000, and couples can gift...Read More
