There are those who go forward unconcerned about the estate tax because they have heard that it is something that only applies to the very wealthy. Just how true this is will depend on your definition of "very wealthy." In fact, when 2013 arrives you really don't have to be a powerful tycoon to find yourself in possession of resources that exceed the estate tax exclusion amount, especially if you include the value of your home. Next year the estate tax exclusion is going down to just $1 … [Read more...] about Remember Home Value When Evaluating Estate Tax Exposure
Why You Shouldn’t Leave Your Assets to Your Spouse
The “I love you” will is NOT a good way to leave assets to your spouse. An “I love you” will is as simple will that provides all assets to go directly to the spouse. If the spouse is not then living, the assets go to the children. Why you shouldn’t leave your assets to your spouse: Outright assets often never reach children. Children are often unintentionally disinherited by their parent and intentionally disinherited by a step-parent. Instead, pass the assets to your surviving spouse in … [Read more...] about Why You Shouldn’t Leave Your Assets to Your Spouse
