» Estate Planning

Why Every Co-Owner of Farmland Needs a Buy-Sell Agreement

Why Every Co-Owner of Farmland Needs a Buy-Sell Agreement When two or more people co-own farmland—whether it’s a father and son, siblings, or long-time business partners—one critical question looms: What happens when one of us retires, pass… Read More
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Categories: Estate Planning, Farm

The Lifetime QTIP Trust

The Lifetime QTIP Trust Estate planning for couples in a second or subsequent marriage can be tricky, especially if their estates are disproportionate. One solution that allows the more affluent spouse to maintain control of their property and wealth… Read More
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Categories: Estate Planning

Planning for Real Estate in a Foreign Country

Planning for Real Estate in a Foreign Country The allure of a foreign land—perhaps where the weather is milder, the pace of life slower, and the cost of living lower—is a dream for many Americans who want to escape our country’s fast-paced, hig… Read More
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Does Treating Your Children Fairly Mean Unequal Inheritances?

Does Treating Your Children Fairly Mean Unequal Inheritances? When thinking through their estate plan and how they want their assets (money and property) managed after they pass away, most parents wish to treat their children equally, often out of a… Read More
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Categories: Estate Planning

Minimalism May Be Great for Your Stuff and Finances but Not for Your Estate Plan

Minimalism May Be Great for Your Stuff and Finances but Not for Your Estate Plan In a modern world marked by information overload, overflowing inboxes, nonstop notifications, and the constant pressure to accumulate more stuff, minimalism offers a com… Read More
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Categories: Estate Planning

What Farmers Need to Know About the Changing Estate Tax Landscape

What Farmers Need to Know About the Changing Estate Tax Landscape Estate taxes are a topic most people would rather avoid—but for farmers, understanding how these taxes work is critical to protecting the family farm and ensuring a smooth succession… Read More
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Categories: Estate Planning, Farm

Why Can’t We Have a Joint Trust If We Are Not Married?

Why Can’t We Have a Joint Trust If We Are Not Married? Joint trusts are beneficial for many married couples, especially if they have a stable relationship, do not have many creditors, and do not live in a state where their estate may be subject to… Read More
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Categories: Estate Planning

Planning for the Unthinkable: Essential Tools for Parents of Minor Children

Planning for the Unthinkable: Essential Tools for Parents of Minor Children Approximately three-fourths of Americans do not have a basic will.[1] Many of the same people also have children under the age of 18, which underscores a major misunderstandi… Read More
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Categories: Estate Planning

Surprise! You Cannot Easily Disinherit Your Spouse

Surprise! You Cannot Easily Disinherit Your Spouse Believe it or not, it is not easy to disinherit your spouse in the United States. In many states and the District of Columbia, you cannot intentionally disinherit your spouse unless your spouse agree… Read More
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How to Minimize the (Voluntary) Federal Estate Tax with Portability

How to Minimize the (Voluntary) Federal Estate Tax with Portability Most people may be surprised to learn that the federal estate tax is considered by some to be voluntary. Estate planning attorneys used to say, “You only pay if you do not plan.”… Read More
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Categories: Estate Planning