Income, estate, and other federal tax levies have commonly been a bone of contention between those with different political ideologies; but the current conflict has reached unusual heights, with various million- and billionaires publicly expressing their views (pro or against) about current tax laws. Of course, million- or billionaires aren’t the only ones with strong… Read More »
Posts Categorized: Current Events
After A Tempestuous Life Amy Winehouse Leaves Clear and Certain Will
Following the death of British singer Amy Winehouse there have been a number of news stories and blog posts about her turbulent career and the last few years of her life. In the midst of all this scrutiny, perhaps the most surprising discovery is the fact that Winehouse’s affairs were in incredibly good order, with… Read More »
The Importance of Estate Planning for New Parents
News sources such as the Washington Post entertainment section promise that this summer will be flush with celebrity newborns and proud mamas and papas. Some of the stars expecting additions to their families include Natalie Portman, Kate Hudson, Jennifer Connelly and more. Here at our office we wonder how many of these new parents will… Read More »
New Estate Tax Portability Provision Should be Considered with Caution
A new “Portability Provision” in The Tax Relief, Unemployment Insurance Reauthorization, and Jobs Creation Act of 2010 has some couples excited about the financial possibilities. As explained in this article in the Wall Street Journal, the new portability provision “permits surviving spouses to elect to use the unused portion of the estate tax applicable exclusion… Read More »
Royal Couple Has Many Asking “How Effective Are Prenuptial Agreements?”
It’s all over the news lately that Prince William and his fiancé Kate Middleton will likely not sign a prenuptial agreement before the royal wedding on April 29th. Although many reasons have been given as to why the couple will forgo signing a prenup, one of the reasons is that “while prenuptial agreements are common… Read More »
What Happens Now to Elizabeth Taylor’s Fortune?
The recent passing of Elizabeth Taylor has many wondering what will now happen with her sizeable fortune? According to this article in Forbes Ms. Taylor’s fortune includes not only the millions she made in the Hollywood movie industry, but the even greater amount made she made with her fragrance line. “In her most savvy business… Read More »
New POLST Raises Awareness About End-Of-Life Decisions
A recent article in the Wall Street Journal shines the light on a new program being instituted by a growing number of states called “Physician-Orders for Life Sustaining Treatment,” or POLST. “A POLST, which is signed by both the patient and the doctor, spells out such choices as whether a patient wants to be on… Read More »
Tragedy in Japan Inspires Reflection: Are You Prepared for Disaster?
Only a few days ago the world was shocked by the terrible earthquake and tsunami in Japan. Our hearts and prayers go out the people affected by the tragedy, and many people are asking what they can do to help. The sudden violence of nature has many of us looking at our own situations as… Read More »
Coming in 2012: Change for Retirees
Last month the Obama administration released their budget for the 2012 fiscal year, and included in that budget were a few things that retirees (or those close to retiring) will want to be aware of. If you own a business you may want to keep reading as well, as some of the proposals within the… Read More »
With the Federal Estate Tax Set at $5 Million, Escaping the State Death Tax Is Now An Issue For Migrating Seniors
For wealthy seniors, state death taxes may now be a big issue, especially if the seniors have the ability to relocate to a “death tax” friendly state. The federal estate tax is set (for at least another two years) but we still expect some states to continue making changes to their own estate tax. The… Read More »