Blog

New USDA Study Projects Increase in Share of Farm Estates that owe Federal Estate Tax

As outlined in our recent post, 2024 Estate and Gift Tax Update, the current federal estate tax exemption is the highest level it has ever been (other than 2010 and before there was an estate tax). The unified exemption limit for individuals dying in… Read More
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Categories: Estate Planning, Farm, News

Navigating the Real Estate Market: Understanding Recorded Deeds and Avoiding Scams!

Introduction: In the world of real estate, navigating property transactions can sometimes seem daunting. Amidst the digital landscape, it’s essential to stay informed and aware of scammers. One area of concern involves the sale of recorded deed… Read More
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Categories: News, Real Estate

How Far in Advance Can I Begin My Estate Planning?

You can create your estate plan at any time, but many people choose to begin the process sooner rather than later. Why? Because you never know when life-changing medical or financial emergencies can strike that will require someone else to manage you… Read More
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Categories: Estate Planning

Corporate Transparency Act Imposes New Small Business Reporting Requirements for 2024

Small business owners will have one more item on their compliance to-do list now that the Corporate Transparency Act (“CTA”) has taken effect. The CTA,[1] enacted as part of the Anti-Money Laundering Act of 2020, places new reporting requirements… Read More
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Categories: Business, News

2024 Estate and Gift Tax Update

With the new year, it is time to provide an update on gift and estate taxes. While this topic is not always the most exciting for clients to talk about, it is often a critical consideration in how a business or farm operation will pass to the next ge… Read More
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Categories: Estate Planning

Securing Your Farm Legacy through Strategic Succession Planning

As estate planning attorneys with a deep appreciation for the agricultural heritage of Minnesota (and many of us having a farm connection), we take seriously our role in helping our clients develop and implement a strategic plan for the future of the… Read More
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Categories: Estate Planning, Farm

Should the Trustee of My Trust Be Different during My Incapacity Than at My Death?

When you create a trust, choosing a trustee is one of the most important decisions you will make. If you create a revocable living trust—that is, a trust that you establish during your lifetime and can revoke or amend—you may opt to act as truste… Read More
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Categories: Estate Planning

Three Important Concerns Self-Employed Individuals Should Address

Being self-employed is no easy task. You are the owner, and in some cases, the only employee. While you may have more freedom than the average worker, a lot of responsibilities lie on your shoulders. Working together, we can craft a comprehensive est… Read More
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Categories: Business

Home Security Systems and Estate Planning

Estate planning helps bring peace of mind and a sense of security, both in our lifetime and beyond. While we cannot predict our fate, we can at least dictate how our money and property will be distributed and ensure that we provide for our loved ones… Read More
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Categories: Estate Planning

The Pitfalls of Creating a DIY Trust: Legal Landmines Await

Introduction: Creating a trust is a crucial step in estate planning, allowing individuals to manage their assets and ensure a smooth transfer of wealth to beneficiaries. While the idea of a Do-It-Yourself (DIY) trust might seem appealing, it comes wi… Read More
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Categories: Estate Planning, Probate