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.
For many people, two common estate planning goals are contributing to a favorite charity and leaving significant assets to your family under favorable tax terms. A charitable remainder trust (CRT) can help you achieve both goals.ABCs of CRTsTypically, you set up one...
A key decision you must make when drafting your estate plan is who to appoint as the executor. In a nutshell, an executor (called a “personal representative” in some states) is the person who will carry out your wishes after your death. Let’s take a look at the...
Legendary singer Aretha Franklin died more than six years ago. However, it wasn’t until last year that a Michigan judge ruled a handwritten document discovered under her couch cushions was a valid will. This case illustrates the dangers of a so-called “holographic”...
Tax planning is only a small component of estate planning — and usually not even the most important one for most people. The primary goal of estate planning is to protect your family, and saving taxes is just one of many strategies you can use to provide for your...
Do you own your principal residence? If so, you’re likely aware that you can benefit from the home’s build-up in equity, realize current tax breaks and pocket a sizable tax-exempt gain when you sell it.And from an estate planning perspective, it may be beneficial to...
Surviving spouses are faced with many financial and tax-related decisions. One critical issue to consider is whether to file a joint or separate tax return for the year of the spouse’s death. Timing of the final tax return When a person dies, his or her personal...