The current record-high federal estate and gift tax exemptions are set to expire in 2026. Currently, people can gift a certain amount during their lifetimes, but these limits could be halved in 2026 unless Congress extends the duration or makes the amendments...
Estate Planning
Understanding Probate Administration in California
What is Probate Administration? How Does Probate Work in California? When is Probate Required in California? Probate vs. Non-Probate Assets Have you considered what will happen to your assets when you pass on? To whom and how you designate your assets prior to your...
Property Tax Transfers
What Is Prop 19 in Simple Terms? How Does Prop 19 Change Taxation of Family Property Transfers? Does Prop 19 Affect Inheritance? Does Prop 19 Affect Property Held in Trust? Is Prop 19 Retroactive on Inherited Properties? How Do You Avoid Property Reassessment in Prop...
Guide to Understanding Common Legal Terms Associated With Estate Planning Including Wills and Trusts
What is an Estate Plan? Other Important Legal Terms to Understand The Importance of Estate Planning Estate Planning Checklist Estate planning is a necessity when it comes to protecting your loved ones and assets after your death. There is a lot to understand when...
When to Start Estate Planning
What Goes Into Estate Planning At What Age Should You Start Estate Planning? The Importance of Starting Estate Planning Early Do You Need a Will or Trust? When to Update Your Existing Estate Plan Creating an Estate Plan in California When you think about wills, trusts...
Should you invest in cryptocurrencies as a retirement strategy?
When you ponder your estate planning options, there are myriad investment strategies to consider. Some are more lucrative and volatile than others, which can add to your confusion. Unless you have spent the past few years living under a rock, you have certainly heard...
Top Five Reasons To Contest A Will
When a loved one passes, it is important to be sure that their friends and family follow the decedent's correct will. This legal document determines who inherits what, as well as any other last wishes of the deceased. A potential beneficiary can contest a will if they...
Is an incentive trust an ideal part of your estate plans?
The use of trusts has grown in popularity in recent years. Testators use this estate planning tool to minimize tax obligations and gain better control over their assets' distribution. One type of these that is popular among testators is an incentive trust. Its owner...
3 Ways Estate Planning Helps New Parents Protect Their Child
The birth of a baby is a new start and a very exciting, if exhausting, time for new parents. While you are likely to focus on the immediate needs of your child and the near future, bringing new life into the world is a good time to think about the long-term future as...
Common estate planning mistakes many Californians make
Almost everyone in California knows that it's important to have an estate plan, but most people do not know everything a plan can do. This can have consequences for the testator and their family. Not only can you cost your heirs unnecessary time and money with help...