We offer estate planning as part of our comprehensive wealth management services. We believe that combining the expertise of a CPA and a financial advisor allows us to provide coordinated financial planning. Our approach helps you minimize tax liabilities, ensure compliance, and secure your estate for the future.
With the federal gift and estate tax exemption amount set at $13.99 million for 2025, most people won’t be liable for these taxes. However, capital gains tax on inherited assets may cause an unwelcome tax bite. The good news is that the stepped-up basis rules can...
If your estate planning goals include distributing your wealth while also encouraging specific behaviors or achievements among your heirs, using an incentive trust might be right for your plan. Unlike a traditional trust, which distributes assets according to a set...
When estate planning, it’s common for parents to leave their primary residence or a vacation home to their children. While your parents’ wills or trusts may specify who gets what percentage of the home, typically, you and your siblings will receive equal shares in the...
If you’ve given a significant financial gift to a family member, you may wonder whether you’re required to file a gift tax return. Even if no tax is due, filing Form 709, United States Gift (and Generation-Skipping Transfer) Tax Return, can be a smart decision....
Even if you’re single and have no children, having an estate plan helps ensure your final wishes are clearly documented and respected. Estate planning isn’t solely about passing assets on to direct descendants; it’s about taking control of your future. Without a...
Life insurance plays a vital role in your estate plan because its proceeds can provide for your family in the event of your untimely death. And for wealthier families, life insurance proceeds can cover any estate tax liability not covered by the current $13.99 million...
A revocable trust (sometimes referred to as a “living trust”) is a popular estate planning tool that allows you to manage your assets during your lifetime and ensure a smooth transfer of those assets to your family after your death. Plus, trust assets bypass the...
Your estate plan is the perfect place to make charitable gifts if you’re a charitably inclined individual. One vehicle to consider using is a donor-advised fund (DAF). What’s the main attraction? Among other benefits, a DAF allows you to set aside funds for charitable...
There are many benefits of including a revocable trust in your estate plan. This trust type allows you to minimize probate expenses, keep your financial affairs private, and provide for the management of your assets in the event you become incapacitated. Importantly,...
If you’re charitably inclined and itemize deductions, you may be entitled to deduct charitable donations. The key word is “may” because there are requirements you must meet. One such requirement is the need to substantiate charitable gifts with proper documentation...