What’s the single hottest topic in California estate planning? Here in Sacramento foreclosures are a popular topic but not so much for people with assets. Estate tax law changes are always in vogue for people with money. However, the number one hottest topic, the numero uno point of concern, the biggest area of questions is in the area… Read More »
A properly funded trust will avoid probate upon your death and provide management of your assets without court involvement should you become disabled or incapacitated. Although your Last Will and Testament may provide that all assets spill over into your trust for further disposition, that occurs only after they pass through probate. Assets under the trust umbrella need… Read More »
Any trust, in effect, is a written agreement between the grantor and the trustee on how the trustee will manage funds contributed by the grantor on behalf of the beneficiary. A special needs trust adds complications to this arrangement because the beneficiary often cannot guide the trustee on her needs and the trustee may have to be careful… Read More »
Every taxpayer has an estate tax exemption, which allows you to “shield” assets from the federal estate taxation. This federal estate tax exemption can be used to transfer assets to your beneficiaries, whether outright or in trust. Bequests to your spouse however are generally not subject to estate tax. The federal estate tax exemption amount (before taxation commences… Read More »