Recent Blog Posts
Does it Matter if Federal Estate Taxes Go Away Under President Trump?
Candidate Donald Trump said and tweeted a great many things when he ran for president. While his views on immigration and the weight of beauty contestants received a lot of attention, the candidate also vowed to repeal the federal estate and gift tax for everyone. Now that he is President-elect Trump and the Republicans… Read More »
Why is estate planning important?
The common expression “out of sight, out of mind,” is often used to describe conditions or issues that should be addressed but that are not encountered in everyday life and are subsequently often remain overlooked and unaddressed. This is especially true with a person planning for the future, including his or her estate planning…. Read More »
Estate tax turns 100: A brief review of the law on its centennial
The estate tax is celebrating a monumental birthday this year. The law, originally enacted as part of the Revenue Act of 1916 under Woodrow Wilson, is celebrating its centennial. As with most momentous birthday celebrations, the event provides an opportunity to reflect on where the tax has been, where it is, and where it… Read More »
Understanding the importance of a living will
Contrary to what the name suggests, a living will is not actually a will. It is actually a healthcare directive which is designed to dictate a person’s wishes if he or she becomes unable to communicate. It is generally designed for instances when an injury or illness leaves a person permanently unconscious or while… Read More »
What is a Power of Attorney?
A Power of Attorney is a legal instrument that allows a designated person to act on your behalf. They are your agent and have authority to make decisions. The range of decisions they can make depends on which Power of Attorney you have executed, there are three. The 3 types of Power of Attorney… Read More »
What are the benefits of a living trust?
A trust is established when a grantor, or the owner of property, gives permission to manage property to a trustee. The trust itself may also be known as the deed or declaration of trust and contains the rules outlined and determined by the grantor. The trustee’s responsibilities are to adhere to the terms of… Read More »
Three tips for executors facing a will challenge
Getting named as an executor or executrix of a will is a serious responsibility. These responsibilities are put to the test when the will in question is challenged. What leads to a will challenge? A will can be challenged for a number of reasons. Two of the more common instances that result in ac… Read More »
What is a health proxy?
Some Ft. Myers residents are familiar with the basic types of estate planning documents. They may know about the importance of a will and how a trust can also be an integral part of their estate plan. They may even know about the importance of a power of attorney (POA) and how that document… Read More »
What you need to know about the Medicaid look-back period and long-term care
Estate planning needs to take into account if one or both spouses will need to tap into Medicaid for long-term care needs. Unlike Medicare which is an insurance program, Medicaid is a social welfare program with certain eligibility requirements. These programs are not only called Medicaid, for example, California has Medi-Cal and Wisconsin has… Read More »
Estate planning with stepchildren: what to know
Estate planning is often a very helpful tool when it comes to making sure that any assets you have are distributed the right way after your death. However, a remarriage and stepchildren can complicate things and make estate planning more difficult. If you find yourself in that situation, though, it becomes more important than… Read More »
