Shahzeb Gaziani

Irving Blackman, retired founding partner of Blackman Kallick Bartelstein LLP and chariman emeritus of the New Century Bank, has published an article in CONTRACTORmag.com.  The article addresses tax issues to consider when creating an es... Read More

Michele Knight, CPA and owner of Knight Accounting & Technology, has published an article in the Summit Daily News.  The article highlights tax issues being considered by congress and the implications they may have on tax liabil... Read More

Judge Calabresi, Circuit Court Judge for the Second Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals, wrote an opinion, on behalf of the court, examining 26 U.S.C. § 2036(a)(1) and whether an implied agreement existed to retain enjoyment in a tra... Read More

Kelly Greene has published an article in the July 24, 2010 edition of the Wall Street Journal discussing concerns for parents leaving behind a retirement account as part of their child's inheritance.  Greene identifies the problem of controll... Read More

Tim Berry posted an article addressing the issue of asset protection under certain business entities.  Specifically, Greene identifies LLCs and Limited Partnerships (LP) as possibly being suspect entities for asset protection. ... Read More

Glenn Curtis has published an article in Forbes.com addressing the importance of drafting a will.  Curtis identifies specific benefits to drafting a will which include:  the speedy administration of a decedent estate, ensuring certain lo... Read More

Brian Wingfield has published an article on Forbes.com discussing potential tax increases on businesses and other entities.  Specifically, Brian outlines a variety of options congress may consider including:  addressing the S-corpor... Read More

Benny Kass, a practicing attorney in Washington, DC and Maryland, has published an article on August 16, 2010 for the Boston Globe's website, boston.com.  The article addresses two questions.  The first question is whether parents can se... Read More

Ashlea Ebeling published an article in the August 09, 2010 issue of Forbes Magazine.  Ebeling discusses the use of a self-settled asset protection trust as a domestic asset protection option.  Specifically, Ebeling analyzes under what circums... Read More

Seth R. Kaplan, a partner in the trust and wealth transfer group of Bilzin Sumberg Baena Price & Axelrod, LLP, published an article on Forbes.com.  The article discusses the potential impact that legislation may have on an estate planning... Read More

Brown Advisory has published its quarterly newsletter.  Articles include the following:   Holding Gain:  Considering Imminent Shifts in Tax Policy Compound Interest:  A Loaded Gun Portfolio Manager Interview:  Elizabeth Levy &a... Read More

Jim Hanks, an attorney at Venable LLP, and Mike Schiffer, a partner at Venable LLP, recently published a client memo regarding indemnification agreements under Maryland law.  The authors discuss different avenues that directors and officers can ta... Read More

The National Business Institute will be hosting the following 90-minute teleconference:   Health Care Reform as it Affects Elder Law and Estate Planning   For more information click here.   Posted by Shahzeb Gaziani, Senior Associate Edi... Read More

Louis A. Mezzullo, attorney, recently published a book entitled:  An Estate Planner's Guide to Family Business Entities:  Family Limited Partnerships, Limited Liability Companies, and More, Third Edition.    For more information cli... Read More

Carter Ruml recently posted an article entitled, "When Bad IRA Rollovers Happen to Good People."  Ruml writes about the 60-day IRA Rollover period under section 408(d)(3).  Specifically, he highlights recent revenue rulings and... Read More

Nancy Mann Jackson has published an article on bankrate.com entitled, "All About Your Employee Stock Ownership Plan."  Jackson highlights a Georgetown University study that finds companies that offer stock ownership plans fare better in recessiona... Read More

Ike Z. Devji has published an article entitled, "Asset Protection 101 for Physicians."  The article addresses ways for doctors to protect their wealth from litigation and other possible pitfalls.    Please click here to re... Read More

Mark Klimek published an article in the Wall Street Journal.  Klimek discusses why it may be important to consider certain estate planning strategies even when the future needs are uncertain.   Please click here to read the article.   Po... Read More

Citybizlist.com reports that two candidates for the United States Senate in Maryland have signed a pledge to repeal the estate tax.  Specifically, the article notes that candidates Dr. Eric Wargotz and Jim Rutledge have signed the pledge.   P... Read More

The American Bar Association Section of Real Property, Trust & Estate Law will be hosting a 90-minute teleconference & audio webcast on September 14, 2010 entitled:   Pulling Back the Curtain:  Dealing with Oft-overlooked State Death ... Read More

Robert Rubin, former secretary of the US Treasury and co-chairman of the Council on Foreign Relations, and Julian Robertson, chairman of Tiger Management LLC, published an article for the Wall Street Journal entitled:  Bring Back the Estate Tax No... Read More

Elderlawanswers.com recently published an article discussing the importance of speaking to professionals as a marketing tool.  Specifically, they advice discussing with financial planners, accountants, and others who work with seniors as a way to ... Read More

Cheryl Costa has published an article in the Boston Globe entitled, "No Estate Tax Due in 2010 But Beware of Cap Gains."  The article addresses how executors should be aware of more than the expiring estate tax.  Specifically, executors ... Read More

Robert Frank has published an article in the Wall Street Journal entitled, "How to Shield Assets Like the Rich."  Frank examines the controversy surrounding the ownership of the major league baseball team, the Los Angeles Dodgers, that is currentl... Read More

Wayne E. Nix, assistant professor of accountancy at Jackson State University, Lee G. Knight, professor of accountancy at Wake Forest University, and Ray A. Knight, managing director of Capstone Planning Alliance, LLC, have published an a... Read More

The Court of Appeals for the Seventh District of Texas, wrote an opinion regarding lost wills in the case of In re Estate of Catlin, 311 S.W.3d 697 (Tex. App. - Amarillo 2010, pet. denied).  Specifically, the court found that... Read More

Richard Epstein, professor of law at New York University and Senior Fellow at the Hoover Institution, published an article in Forbes magazine entitled, "Let The Estate Tax Die a Merciful Death."  The article is in response to a Wall Street... Read More

The University of Iowa Law School will be hosting the following lecture:   Why the Grantor Trust Rules Should be Repealed Mark L. Ascher, the Joseph D. Jamail Centennial Chair in Law, Univerisity of Texas   Please click here for... Read More

Lee Lytton, professor of law at St. Mary's University School of Law, has published an article entitled, "Save the Land from Uncle Sam:  Using Life Insurance Premium Financing in Estate Planning."  Lytton provides an estate planning technique ... Read More

Chad J. Pomeroy, attorney, published an article entitled, "Ending Surprise Liens on Real Property."  The article addresses the issue of surprise liens which are not recorded in the real property filing system.  Specifically, the art... Read More

Tom Herman has published an article in the Wall Street Journal entitled, "The Future of the Estate-Tax Law."  Herman provides a prediction of what congress will do to modify the estate tax expiration.  Specifically, he predicts that congress ... Read More

Tara Siegel Bernard has published an article in the New York Times entitled, "In Using Software to Write a Will, a Lawyer Is Still Helpful."  Bernard utilizes four different softwares to help her draft a will.  Afterward, she has an... Read More

Jonathan G. Blattmachr has published an article entitled, "Looking Back and Looking Ahead:  Preparing Your Practice for the Future:  Do Not Get Behind the Change Curve."  Blattmachr articulates the importance of law firms and other non-p... Read More

The law firm of Morris, Nichols, Arsht & Tunnell, LLP has sent out a Delaware Trusts, Estates & Tax Law Update regarding the Delaware Chancery Court case of Stone v. Stant.  The article addresses the importance of having an independent... Read More

Wendy C. Gerzog, Professor of Law at the University of Baltimore School of Law, has published an article entitled, "The Price of an FLP Annual Exclusion."  The article addresses the case of Price v. Commissioner.  The Tax Court in Price... Read More

Bridget M. Fuselier, Associate Professor of Law at Baylor Law School, published an article entitled, "Pre-embryos in Probate:  Property, Person, or Something Else."  The article addresses what a pre-embryo will be considered under the law and... Read More

Debra Cassens Weiss has published an article in the ABA Journal entitled, " 6-Month Suspension Urged for Lawyer Who Claimed to Channel Client's Dead Wife."  The article provides details of a lawyer's claim to be have been possessed by client's... Read More

Christopher R. Hoyt, Professor of Law at University of Missouri - Kansas City School of Law, published an article entitled, "Rethinking Roth IRA Conversions in 2010."  The article discusses the pros and cons for high-income earners wanti... Read More

Paul Sullivan wrote an article for the New York Times entitled:  "Choosing Insurance for the College Life (Grades Not Included)."  The article addresses the risks and liabilities associated with today's college student and ways the risk can b... Read More

Abigail Disney, filmaker and philanthropist, recently wrote an article in USA Today entitled, "Mickey Mouse, the estate tax and me."  In it she argues that her family's business would not have been able to succeed without the legal protections pro... Read More

Kristine S. Knaplund, professor of law at Pepperdine University School of Law, recently published an article entitled, "The New Uniform Probate Code's Surprising Gender Inequities."  The article examines the issue of postmortem conception and whet... Read More

Ike Devji has written an article entitled, "Asset Protection For The Middle Class?"  The article provides a list of common asset protection techniques that are recommended to clients.  This article was reposted on the Ohio Trust & Estate ... Read More

The National Business Institute will be hosting the following 90-minute teleconference:   Income Tax Consequences and Trust Accounting   Please click here for more information   Posted by Shahzeb Gaziani, Senior Associate Edito... Read More

James R. Hines, Jr., professor of law at the University of Michigan, has published an article entitled, "Taxing Inheritances, Taxing Estates."  In the article he examines the economic impact of distinguishing transfer tax liability by numbers of c... Read More

Leigh-Alexandra Basha, a partner at Holland & Knight LLP, has recently published an article entitled, "Estate Planning for the Multinational Couple:  It's a Small, But Complex World."  The article deals with jurisdictional issues that ari... Read More

Robert Frank has published an article in the Wall Street Journal entitled, "High-Tax States Still Grow Millionaires."  Frank examines the question of whether there is tax-driven wealth flight from states that have higher taxes.  Frank conclud... Read More

In SBSE-05-1010-052, the IRS issued an interim guidance that looks at whether discharge of tax debt can happen in bankruptcy when the return is filed late and is filed during or after the assessment of a substitute return.  When submitting... Read More

Lynn Freer, President of Spidell Publishing Inc., has sent a letter to the IRS expressing concerns with the proposed regulations, REG-138637-07 and REG-139343-08, which implement the IRS's tax return preparer registration initiative.  Specifically... Read More

Michael I. Norton, professor at Harvard Business School, and Dan Ariely, professor at Duke University, have written an article entitled, "Building a Better America - One Wealth Quintile at a Time."  In it they explain a study they conducted on... Read More

David Cay Johnston, professor at Syracuse University Law School, has published an article entitled, "United in Our Delusion."  In it Johnston examines a study demonstrating that Americans in general have a view that extreme income inequality shoul... Read More

The IRS has issued a revenue ruling where they have found that income from a trust created by a city to provide health care benefits to retirees and their dependents is excluded from gross income under section 115.  Specifically, the ruling... Read More

The IRS has issued a letter ruling that the termination of a charitable remainder annuity trust and the ultimate distribution of the assets to the trust's beneficiaries will not be an act of self-dealing, will not be a taxable expenditure,... Read More

Joseph J. Thorndike published an article in Tax Analysis entitled, "Tax History:  A Tea Party For Calvin Coolidge?"  Thorndike examines how President Coolidge's tax policies fit with the modern day Tea Party Movement.   For more informat... Read More

Kip Dellinger published an article in Tax Analysts entitled, "Taxing and Regulating Our Way to Prosperity."  In it, Dellinger argues that the tax and regulatory policies by the current administration is counterproductive to economic recovery and g... Read More

The IRS has concluded that a trust may revoke its electing small business trust election and has granted an extension to file a qualified subchapter S trust election.   For more information, please see Tax Notes Today, 2010 TNT 200-37.... Read More

The IRS has granted an extension of time to file written representations under reg. section 1.7872-15(d)(2) that would allow otherwise noncontingent nonrecourse premium payments under a split-dollar life insurance plan to be treated as not contingent u... Read More

Mary Anne Reilly and Martin B. Solomon have published an editorial criticizing David Cay Johnston's recent column entitled, "United in Our Delusion."  In it, Reilly and Solomon note discrepencies with Johnston's analysis and conclusions.  Spe... Read More

The Tax Court ruled in an October 7 memorandum decision that the IRS is permitted to apply an individual's overpayment of tax against a proposed but unassessed deficiency.  The IRS argued that a levy, assessment, or court proceeding under Section... Read More

The accounting firm of KPMG has released a report which concludes that the decline of personal income taxes that was experienced over the past seven years appears to have ended.  While most income taxes appear to be static, there is some... Read More

Sam Goldfarb has published an article in Tax Analysts entitled, "Some in GOP Look for Middle Ground on the Estate Tax."  Goldfarb writes that in the hopes of finding a permanent fix to the estate tax, the GOP may be... Read More

The ABA Section of Real Property, Trust and Estate Law has published it Bi-Monthly newsletter for members.  The following are articles in this year's edition:   A "One of a Kind" Opportunity is Closing: Leveraging Large Taxable Gifts in 2010... Read More

Scott Martin has written a post entitled, "Advisors Offer Estate Plans That Create Heirs Born After Clients Pass Away."  In it, Martin highlights a growing speciality in estate planning that plans for posthumous conceptions.    Plea... Read More

In Sword v. Commissioner, the court ruled that interest in property given as part of the annual gift tax exclusion can be converted to a joint tenancy if the instrument utilized to make the transfer creates it.  Thus, depreciation expenses in... Read More

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Carter Ruml recently published an article entitled, "One Small Latin Phrase Can Turn Your Heirs Into Mad Men (and Women)."  The article analyzes a court case that discusses the importance of the phrases "per capita" and "per stirpes".   Pleas... Read More

Ron Lieber recently wrote an article for the New York Times entitled, "What It Takes to Buy a House in Foreclosure."  Lieber follows the journey of an Atlanta woman in her quest to purchase a foreclosed home and documents the... Read More

On Insurancenewsnet.com an article entitled, "La. Accounts Prep Cliets for Return Of Estate Tax" was published.  The article analyzes issues pertaining to the estate tax plan if certain exemptions are not renewed by congress.  Specifically, t... Read More

David Leonhardt posted an article for the New York Times entitled, "After the Elections, Options for a Tax Cut."  In it Leonhardt looks at the possibilities on how a lame-duck congress may examine extending the Bush Tax Cuts and the... Read More

James Pethokoukis has written an article for Reuters entitled, "Is this the Tax Reform Obama and the New Congress Can Agree On?"  The author notes that while the public is paying attention to which spending cuts President Obama's bipartisan defici... Read More

The Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration recently released a report entitled, "Coordination and Procedures for Foreclosure Can Be Improved."  The report found, among other things, that the IRS was inconsistent in how it processed fore... Read More

Donald B. Tobin wrote an article for RollCall entitled, "CEOs Shouldn't Use Corporate Treasury as Personal Piggy Bank."  In the article, Tobin highlights how News Corp.'s recent contribution to the Republican Governors Association creates legal pr... Read More

Megan McArdle wrote an article for the Atlantic entitled, "Why We Should Eliminate the Corporate Income Tax."  In the article, McArdle argues that the corporate tax is not the best vehicle for serving the social purpose it was originally intended... Read More

Kathy Loden, Joel Deuth & Brendan Mohoney, members of Deloitte Tax LLP's Tax Policy Group, published a memo entitled, "GOP Tightens Grip on Tax Policy as Republicans Win House, Make Gains in Senate."  The memo examines changes t... Read More

Lori Montgomery published an article in the Washington Post entitled, "White House, Congress Poised for Battle Over Tax Breaks in Lame-Duck Session."  The article examines two issues that will be pressing for congress to handle befo... Read More

Paul Sullivan recently published an article in the New York Times entitled, "Exploring Trusts for the Disabled."  The article examines two types of special-needs trusts and describes the challenges involved in administering them.   Posted by ... Read More

Paul Krugman published a post in the New York Times entitled, "Wag The Me."  The post examines a quote written by Richard Thaler on the impending expiration of the estate tax rate that was enacted under President George W. Bush. ... Read More

Christopher W. Yugo, a Crown Point attorney, recently published an article entitled, "ESTATE PLANNING:  Having Fun with EGTRRA."  The article addressed the impact that the expiration of the Bush tax cuts will have on the estate tax.  Spe... Read More

Martin A. Sullivan published an article in Tax Analysts entitled, "Fiscal Crisis, Part 2:  Catastrophe."  The article examines the problems with governmental debt and describes how the resulting crisis will look.   Posted by Shahzeb... Read More

An editorial on Freep.com was published entitled, "Extend Federal Tax Cuts for Just One Year."  The article examines the ramifications of not extending any of the Bush tax cuts and concludes that the best possible solution would be a one-year... Read More

Scott Martin published an article entitled, "Wilmington Trust's Sale to M&T Bank Beginning to Show Signs of Defections."  The article examines the sales price of purchasing Wilmington Trust and discusses why the deal may not be as lopsided as ... Read More

John D. Mckinnon published an article with the Wall Street Journal entitled, "Extending Tax Cuts but with a Catch."  The article discusses a proposal by Sen. Conrad (D-ND) and Sen. Bayh (D-IN) where the Bush tax cuts would be temporarily... Read More

Robert Frank published an article for the Wall Street Journal entitled, "Giving by the Rich:  Altruism or Just a Tax Write-Off."  The article notes a study that charitable giving by the wealthy is done for altruistic reasons.  However, t... Read More

Joshua S. Rubenstein published an article entitled, "Election Results Are In...So Where Does That Leave the Estate Tax."  The article examines what the likely result will be the lame-duck session of congress and how it will address the expiration ... Read More

Paul Sullivan published an article for the New York Times entitled, "Planning for Income and Estate Taxes in an Uncertain Time."  The article examines what may happen to the estate, income, and capital gains taxes should congress not act in... Read More

Jonah Lehrer published an article in the Wall Street Journal entitled, "Are We Hardwired to Love Taxes?"  The article presents a study conducted at Caltech which found that humans are naturally predisposed to wealth inequity.  The study goes ... Read More

James M. Lindsay wrote an article for the Council on Foreign Relations entitled, "The Lame-Duck Congress Returns."  The article discusses what issues the lame-duck congress will address including the Bush tax cuts, extension of unemployment benefi... Read More

The U.S. Court of Appeals for the 2nd Circuit has ruled that a company may not indemnify its CEO or CFO for any compensation or stock sale profits that the officers are required to disgorge under Section 304.  The case... Read More

Robert W. Wood published an article in Forbes entitled, "Ghoulish Estate Planning Before New Year's?"  The article discusses the perverse dilemma some face in deciding life and death decisions.  Moreover, the article provides estate planning ... Read More

Ron Lieber, published an article in the New York Times entitled, "A Dying Banker's Last Instructions."  The article examines a book written by a banker who is dying of cancer.  Specifically, the book advises against active trading investment ... Read More

The ABA has published its November 2010 E-News.  The following articles are in the E-News:Power Your Practice with Free Tools from GoogleSeven Tips for Dealing wiht Deadbeat ClientsAlternatives to Billable Hour Work, say ABA PanelistsBuilding Cred... Read More

Deloitte LLC published their Tax News & Views newsletter.  The following are the articles in the December 3, 2010 issue:Senate schedules Saturday procedural vote on Democratic tax cut alternativesIRS issues guidance for deferred compensation p... Read More

The Wall Street Journal posted an article in the Review & Outlook section entitled, "The Walking Death Tax:  Without Congressional action, it returns with a 55% rate vengeance in 26 days."  The article examines the tax debate in congress ... Read More

The IRS published their special edition tax tip.  In their December 7, 2010 issue, they inform their readers to follow them on twitter.Posted by Shahzeb Gaziani, Senior Associate Editor, Wealth Strategies Journal... Read More

Hani Sarji published an article entitled, "Two Sections of The American Bar Association Urge Congress To Act On Pending Estate & GST Tax Legislation."  The article discusses a letter written by the ABA Real Property, Trust, and Estate Section ... Read More

Stephen Colbert on his show The Colbert Report makes a parady of President Obama's tax cut deal with the Republican leadership.Posted by Shahzeb Gaziani, Senior Associate Editor, Wealth Strategies Journal.... Read More

R. Scott Johnston published an article entitled, "2010:  A Year of Opportunities and Uncertainties."  The article examines the tax and estate planning benefits that exist in 2010.  As well, he previews the future of wealth planning in 20... Read More

Jaclyn H. Schottenstein published an article entitled, "Is Bank Secrecy Still Bankable?:  A Critical Review of Bank Secrecy Law, Tax Evasion and UBS."  In light of the financial crisis and the push for tax revenue by shuttering tax shelters, ... Read More

TaxProf posted a series of videos on the Obama-GOP Tax compromise.Posted by Shahzeb Gaziani, Senior Associate Editor, Wealth Strategies Journal.... Read More

The CCH Group published a special report of their tax briefs on the Tax Relief/Job Creation Act of 2010.  The report highlights and summarizes the impact of the compromise tax bill that President Obama and the GOP negotiated.  Posted by... Read More

WTAS published its December 2010 edition of For The Record, it's online newsletter.  The following are the articles in the newsletter:Tax Planning in Uncertain Times2010 California Legislative UpdatePulling the Plug on Estate and GST Tax SavingsUn... Read More

Dan Murphy published an article entitled, "Wrong Tack on Estate Tax."  The piece argues that agriculture and farm groups should not fight for the wholesale repeal of the estate tax.  Instead they should ask for an exemption to farmland in... Read More

Chris Good published an article entitled, "Will Democrats Buy the Deal?"  The article examines whether congressional democrats will scuttle President Obama's compromise deal with the congressional republican leadership.Posted by Shahzeb Gaziani, S... Read More

Donald H. Kelley published an article entitled, "Planning Perspectives:  One-stop shopping for the charitable gift or charitable organization planner."  The article discusses a website which provides an online template for charities to coordi... Read More

Ray D. Madoff published an op-ed in the New York Times entitled, "Give Up on the Estate Tax."  The author argues that democrats would be better off giving up the estate tax and concentrating on taxing wealth transfers as part... Read More

Robert W. Wood published an article entitled, "AMT Tax Nicely Embroidered."  The article examines the AMT tax and gives a summary of what the tax calculations would look like under different scenarios.  Posted by Shahzeb Gaziani, Senior Assoc... Read More

Tim Rutten published an article entitled, "And the Rich Get Richer."  The article discusses the origination of the estate tax by Theodore Roosevelt and points out the irony that he was a highly regarded republican.Posted by Shahzeb Gaziani, Senior... Read More

The New York Times published an editorial entitled, "The Tax-Cut Deal."  The article begins with a quote by President Obama pointing to the the tax deal as proof that both parties could work together.  The editorial goes on to question... Read More

NPR ran a story in their program "all things considered" entitled, "Beyond the Tax Deal:  Targeting the Code Itself."  The program analyzes the need for a complete revamping of the tax code by eliminating certain exemptions and taxing certain... Read More

Amy Hoak published an article for the Wall Street Journal entitled, "End Near for Best Energy Tax Deal."  The article examines the energy tax credits that are available in the tax deal that recently passed congress and concludes that they... Read More

James Paris published an article entitled, "The Bottom Line on Taxes for 2011."  The article provides a quick summary of the major points regarding the tax cut deal.Posted by Shahzeb Gaziani, Senior Associate Editor, Wealth Strategies Journal.http... Read More

Larry R. Goldstein and Robert Gordon Chambers published an article entitled, "Tax Legislation Affects Employee Benefits, Social Security Taxes and Individual Retirement Accounts."  The article discusses the impact of the The Tax Relief, Unemployme... Read More

Graham Bowley published an article in the New York Times entitled, "The New Speed of Money, Reshaping Markets."  The article examines how technology has affected stock trading and the regulatory issues that arise because of it.Posted by Shahzeb Ga... Read More

The IRS has published its Tax Tip for January 2011 with ten pieces of advice for taxpayers.Posted by Shahzeb Gaziani, Senior Associate Editor, Wealth Strategies Journal.... Read More

The IRS Web site - IRS.gov makes it easy to get an answer to a tax question, anytime during the year. The site is available 24 hours a day 7 days a week. Whether you need a form or have... Read More

Allan Brettman published an article entitled, "Knight shifts 2 million Nike shares to trust fund."  The article discusses the Grantor Retained Annuity Trust utilized by Mr. Knight as a common technique to transfer stocks without paying the gift or... Read More

Susan Minahan and Brad Kalscheur published an article entitled, "Wealth planning under the 2010 Tax Relief Act: Temporary estate and gift tax planning opportunities."  The article discusses what the rate will be of the estate tax for the next two... Read More

Janet Novack published an article entitled, "Rewrite Your Will? Not Just Yet."  The article discusses reasons why one should not rewrite their will despite the new updates provided by the law.  Posted by Shahzeb Gaziani, Senior Associate Edit... Read More

Michael D. Bonasera published a piece on the Ohio Trust and Estate Blog entitled, "Opinions Differ Widely On Effect Of New Estate Tax Law."  The article discusses the various opinions on how beneficial or harmful the new legislation is on... Read More

Donald H. Kelley published an article entitled, "2011 Tax Law Changes:  Revisions required for Estate Tax calculation programs."  The article examines the different changes in the tax law and how it impacts estate planning.  Specifically... Read More

WealthCounsel and Trusts & Estates Magazine issued a press release announcing the release of their Fourth Annual Industry Trends Survey.  They released a summary of their findings which provides an optimistic outlook for the wealth planning in... Read More

Donald P. DiCarlo, Jr. published an article entitled, "What Estate Planners Need To Know About The Step Transaction Doctrine."  The article examines the court's analysis of the Step Transaction Doctrine to determine whether an estate planning tran... Read More

McGuireWoods Private Wealth Services Group published a white paper entitled, "The 2010 Tax Act's Impact on Estate Planning and Administration: Making sense out of the Confusion."  The paper analyzes the 2010 Tax Act's impact on estate planning and... Read More

Deloitte is hosting a webcast entitled:Bush-era Tax Cuts Now Extended:  What Are the Considerations for Individual PlanningPosted by Shahzeb Gaziani, Senior Associate Editor, Wealth Strategies Journal.... Read More

The BBC published an article entitled, "Wikileaks given data on Swiss bank accounts."  The article discusses how wikileaks received bank account data on 2,000 prominent people from a former swiss banker.Posted by Shahzeb Gaziani, Senior Associate ... Read More

David Cay Johnston published an article in Tax Notes Today entitled, "Making Tax Simple."  In the article, Johnston examines the reforms proposed by National Taxpayer Advocate Nina Olson.Posted by Shahzeb Gaziani, Senior Associate Editor, Wealth S... Read More

The ABA is hosting a webinar entitled:Life Care Planning and Estate Planning: What Every Attorney Needs to Know About the DifferencesPosted by Shahzeb Gaziani, Senior Associate Editor, Wealth Strategies Journal.... Read More

The ABA is hosting a teleconference entitled:The Lattest News from Washington:  Legislative and Tax Policy Discussion with Lindy Paull and Eric SolomonPosted by Shahzeb Gaziani, Senior Associate Editor, Wealth Strategies Journal... Read More

Lynnley Browning published an article in the New York Times entitled, "Tax Leak Consequences Depend on Details."  The article discusses the impact of the swiss tax data that wikileaks possess.  Specifically the article speculates that if the ... Read More

Laura M. Holson published an article in the New York Times entitled, "For Funerals Too Far, Mourners Gather on the Web."  The article discusses a new trend to stream funerals on the web.Posted by Shahzeb Gaziani, Senior Associate Editor, Wealth... Read More

Venable's Legislative and Government Affairs Practice Group published its January 2011 newsletter entitled, "Capitol View." The following are the articles in this issue:1. Boehner Elected Speaker, Promises More Transparent Leadership Style2. Energy and... Read More

Shai Oster And Kate O'Keeffe published an article in the Wall Street Journal, "Billionaire Speaks Up in Casino Drama."  The article follows the public drama of Chinese tycoon Stanley Ho and his family.  Specifically, the article discusses the... Read More

The Economist published an article entitled, "More Millionaires than Australians."  The article examines the differing opinions on what qualifies as rich and examines how much of wealth is concentrated by the rich.Posted by Shahzeb Gaziani, Senior... Read More

McGuireWoods published an article entitled, "New IRS Voluntary Disclosure Program on the Horizon for U.S. Persons with Undisclosed Foreign Financial Accounts."  The article discusses the IRS's new reduced-penalty voluntary disclosure program for U... Read More

McGuireWoods LLP recently published an article entitled, "Recent Legislation Cuts Payroll Taxes for Most Workers."  The article discusses the recent payroll tax cut and the impact on employers.Posted by Shahzeb Gaziani, Senior Associate Editor, We... Read More

McGuireWoods LLP recently published an article entitled, "The Globalization of Philanthropy."  The article discusses the use of international tax-exempt organizations as a tool to avoid taxation.  Specifically, the use of charitable contribut... Read More

Gerard Baker published an article in the Wall Street Journal entitled, "Larry Summers vs. the Tiger Mom."  The article discusses an interesting panel that featured Larry Summers and Amy Chua.  Amy Chua is famous for writing a book extolling c... Read More

Joseph J. Thorndike published an article in the Wall Street Journal entitled, "Soaking the Wealthy: An American Tradition."  The article discusses the historical tax rate in the United States and the penchant to favor progressive taxation.Posted b... Read More

John A. Miller and Jeffrey A. Maine published an article entitled, "The Fundamental of Wealth Transfer Tax Planning:  2011 and Beyond."  The article examines the operations of federal wealth trasnfer taxes and describes the basic tax planning... Read More

OpenCRS has published a CRS report entitled, "Reform of U.S. International Taxation: Alternatives."  The report examines the challenges of territorial taxation that favors overseas business investment over domestic investment.Posted by Shahzeb Gaz... Read More

OpenCRS has published a CRS report entitled, "The Bush Tax Cuts and the Economy."  The report examines the impact the extension of the Bush Tax Cuts will have on short-term and long-term economic growth.Posted by Shahzeb Gaziani, Senior Associate ... Read More

IRS's Statistics of Income Division published "Estate Tax Statistics" for decendants dying in 2007.Posted by Shahzeb Gaziani, Senior Associate Editor, Wealth Strategies Journal.... Read More

Matt Chaban posted an article entitled, "810 Fifth and Taxes: Felix Rohatyn Gives Co-op, $11.25 M. to Family Trust."  The article examines Felix G. Rohatyn, the Lazard banker, recently transferred of his full-floor co-op at 810 Park Avenue into a... Read More

Kathleen McBride published an article entitled, "Estate Tax Planning 101: 'Call to Action'."  The article discusses the importance of estate tax planning for those who are not extremely wealthy.  It also provides commonly overlooked tax matte... Read More

Lynnley Browning published an article with the New York Times entitled, "I.R.S. Offers a Tougher Amnesty Deal for Offshore Accounts."  The article discusses how Americans with hidden offshore accounts can voluntarily turn themselves in for a lower... Read More

Peter Newcomb published an article entitled, "Hollywood's Top 40." The article provides this year's ranking of Hollywood's biggest earners.Posted by Shahzeb Gaziani, Senior Associate Editor, Wealth Strategies Journal.... Read More

Hani Sarji published an article entitled, "Lawyers And Advisers Can Emphasize Value Added With Deborah L. Jacobs' Client Education Brochures."  The article discusses how Deborah L. Jacobs has created client education brochures for lawyers to utili... Read More

Jeremy Olson published an article entitled, "Wrenching court case: Doctors vs. patient's wife."  The article discusses the case of Al Barnes who is in a vegetative state.  His doctors are trying to replace his wife with a substitute decision-... Read More

San Antonio Estate Planners is hosting an event entitled:Docket Call in Probate Court:  Estate Planning, Probate and Guardianship Seminar and Attorney Ad Litem Certification CoursePosted by Shahzeb Gaziani, Senior Associate Editor, Wealth Strategi... Read More

The Wall Street Journal published an article entitled, "Death Tax Ambush:  Many states now have crushing burdens."  The article discusses how a small legislative change now has created different estate tax standards based on each state. ... Read More

David Cay Johnston published an article in the New York Times entitled, "Certainty on Tax, but Just for Two Years."  The article discusses the limitations of estate planning because of the uncertainty of tax rates after 2012.  One specific ar... Read More

Jan M. Rosen published an article in the New York Times entited, "Tax Cut Deal Could Benefit Charities."  The article discusses how the new tax law provides a $5 million exemption per person on the gift and estate taxes.Posted by... Read More

Deborah L. Jacobs published an article in the New York Times entitled, "Efforts to Avoid Probate Can Carry Their Own Risks."  The article discusses the limitations of a living trust.  Specifically the article provides issues to consider.Poste... Read More

Charles Delafuente published an article with the New York Times entitled, "Some Advice for Wary Spouses: Consider Filing a Separate Return."  The article discusses how to protect a spouse by filing seperately in case of tax fraud by the other... Read More

Tim Gray published an article in the New York Times entitled, "Tasting Three Flavors of Tax Software."  The article examines the effectiveness of three tax softwares:  Tax Act, TurboTax, and H&R Block at Home.Posted by Shahzeb Gaziani, Se... Read More

David M. Herszenhorn published an article in the New York Times entitled, "Seeking the Path to a Simpler Tax Code."  The article discusses the importance of raising tax revenue.  Moreover, it presents various options including a value-added t... Read More

Robert D. Hershey Jr. published an article in the New York Times entitled, "Health Care and Taxes: A Pause Before Impact."  The article discusses the various taxes that were implemented to pay for the Health Care Law.Posted by Shahzeb Gaziani,... Read More

John Schwartz posted an article in the New York Times entitled, "Could Your Senator Conquer the 1040?"  The article discusses a proposal by former governor of Minnesota, Tim Pawlenty, to require lawmakers to prepare their own taxes.Posted by Shahz... Read More

Conrad De Aenlle published an article in the New York Times entitled, "The Push to Trim Corporate Tax Rates."  The article discusses different methods congress may employ in reducing corporate tax rates.  Posted by Shahzeb Gaziani, Senior Ass... Read More

Jan M. Rosen posted an article in the New York Times entitled, "Those Disappearing Tax Breaks."  The article discusses the different tax breaks that are expiring from President Obama's stimulus package.  Posted by Shahzeb Gaziani, Senior Asso... Read More

Martin Vaughan published an article in the Wall Street Journal entitled, "Sen. Kyl: A Fighter for Lowering Estate Tax Rates."  The article discusses the important role Senator Kyl played in estate tax negotiations and how his retirement will impac... Read More

Jennifer Saranow Schultz published an article in the New York Times entitled, "Help in Choosing an Estate Planning Firm."  The article describes a recent report that examined different estate planning firms and the options they provide.Posted by S... Read More

David Shayne, an attorney at Holland & Knight, published an article entitled, "Illinois Revises Its Powers of Attorney for Health Care and Property Law."  The article discusses the new Power of Attorney Act passed in the Illinois General Assem... Read More

The Boston Globe published an article entitled, "Tax scandals of the rich and famous," which examines various celebrity tax scandals.  Posted by Shahzeb Gaziani, Senior Associate Editor, Wealth Strategies Journal.... Read More

Michael J. Graetz published an article entitled, "The Politics and Policy of the Estate Tax - Past, Present, and Future."  The article examines the political history of the estate tax.  It also examines the potential broader implications of r... Read More

The Treasury Department has released it's Green Book on Tax Portions of President Obama's 2012 Budget.  Posted by Shahzeb Gaziani, Senior Associate Editor, Wealth Strategies Journal.... Read More

Department of Justice recently published on their website, "Letter from the Attorney General to Congress on Litigation Involving the Defense of Marriage Act."  The letter announces that President Obama and his administration no longer find the Def... Read More

Sarah Rose published an article entitled, "Booming Incentives to Donate Real Property in a Busting Economy."  The article discusses the history and background of donating real property.  The article also discusses recommendations on donations... Read More

Judge Shaw wrote a decision in the case of Woolley v. Woolley, where the Court of Appeals of Ohio found that a testator who devised real property to his grandson on the condition he pay the testator's two sons $1,000... Read More

Jamie Wilson published an article entitled, "How Does the IRS Track Gifts for the Gift Tax?"  The article discusses various gift tax exemptions under the code.Posted by Shahzeb Gaziani, Senior Associate Editor, Wealth Strategies Journal.... Read More

John R. Cesario published an article entitled, "Succession Planning and the Duty of Diligence."  The article discusses the importance of solo-practioners to plan for death or incapacity in order to lower the adminstrative costs of the attorney's e... Read More

Andrew M. Harris published an article entitled, "Widow's $363,000 Tax Bill Led to Obama Shift on Marriage Act."  The article discusses the impact on same-sex couples whose marriage is not recognized by federal law.  Specifically, the article ... Read More

Anne Tergesen published an article in the Wall Street Journal entitled, "Family Businesses Catch a Big Break."  The article discusses the impact of the tax deal on the gift tax exemption that was raised significantly.  Posted by Shahzeb Gazia... Read More

Deborah L. Jacobs published an article in the New York Times entitled, "Choosing the Right Executor for Your Estate."  The article discusses advice for choosing an executor.Posted by Shahzeb Gaziani, Senior Associate Editor, Wealth Strategies Jour... Read More

CBS in their 60 Minutes show published a show entitled, "A Look at the World's New Corporate Tax Havens."  The piece discusses the business of creating international tax havens.Posted by Shahzeb Gaziani, Senior Associate Editor, Wealth Strategies ... Read More

Robert Frank published an article in the Wall Street Journal entitled, "Rich Fund Manager Calls His Income 'an Absurdity'."  Jonathan Ruffer, a fund manager in the UK, recently called on bankers to spend money in a manner that encouraged money... Read More

Gerry W. Beyer recently published an article entitled, "Taylor's $600m-$1b Fortune Will Continue to Grow."  The post discusses how her fortune will continue to grow after her death and hints at possible inheritors of the funds.Posted by Shahzeb Ga... Read More

Jack Bogdanski posted an article entitled, "If You Did Stuff Like This, You'd Go to Jail."  The post discusses how congress delayed in passing the tax law and it resulted in a short deadline for filing gift tax returns.  Moreover,... Read More

Laala Al Jaber posted an article entitled, "Despite Casual Fashion Trend Sweeping the Business World, Lawyers Choose the Familiar."  The article discusses how despite a trend to go casual in most of corporate America, the legal community has not a... Read More

Debra Cassens Weiss posted an article entitled, "How People Find Lawyers: Referrals Are Popular, Blogs Not So Much, Poll Finds."  The article discusses the use of social media in legal referrals.  Posted by Shahzeb Gaziani, Senior Associate E... Read More

Ainsley Thomson posted an article in the Wall Street Journal entitled, "U.K. Budget Expected to Go After the Tax Dodgers."  The article discusses how the U.K recent budget announcement unveiled the government's goal of raising about $1.6 billion g... Read More

Jesse Drucker published an article entitled, "The Estate Tax Eliminator."  The article discusses how parents can leave their stock market gains to their children using a Grantor Retained Annuity Trust.  The result is a gain that escapes both ... Read More

The 9th Circuit ruled in ESTATE OF SHAPIRO v. U.S. (9th Cir - Feb. 22, 2011) that a pending appeal in a palimony suit claim could result in an estate that is worth less.  Therefore the court ruled that a... Read More

Robert W. Wood published an article entitled, "Election For 2010 Estates: Big Headache."  The article discusses how the 2010 Tax Relief Act may not have been as beneficial for estate planning purposes as initially assumed.  Specifically, the ... Read More

The New York Times published an article entitled, "Social Security and Those Who Need It."  These articles consisted of letters to the editor from readers in response to Alicia H. Munnell article entitled, "To Cut the Deficit, Look to Social... Read More

Robert Frank published an article entitled, "Can Taxing the Rich Erase the Deficit?"  The article criticizes the notion that raising taxes on the affluent is the solution to reducing the deficit.  Posted by Shahzeb Gaziani, Senior Associate E... Read More

Robert Frank posted an article entitled, "Ireland's Former Richest Man Loses Fortune."  The article looks back at Sean Quinn, who was the richest person in Ireland before the financial crisis.Posted by Shahzeb Gaziani, Senior Associate Editor, Wea... Read More

Howard Gleckman published an article entitled, "Will Apostasy On Taxes, Social Security Lead To Deficit Deal?"  The article discusses whether or not republicans and democrats can break their ideological positions to compromise on deficit reduction... Read More

Nancy J. Knauer published a journal article entitled, "Gay and Lesbian Elders: Estate Planning and End-of-Life Decision Making."  The article discusses challenges for gay and lesbian couples for estate planning.  Specifically the article focu... Read More

Stacy Curtin published an article entitled, "Forget Harvard and a 4-Year Degree, You Can Make More as a Plumber in the Long Run, Says Prof. Kotlikoff."  The article questions what is the value of a college education.Posted by Shahzeb Gaziani,... Read More

Milton Cerny and Michele A.W. McKinnon published a law journal article entitled, "The Globalization of Philanthropy: International Charitable Giving in the Twenty-First Century."  The authors discuss the tax implications of international gifts and... Read More

Robert Frank published an article in the Wall Street Journal entitled, "Why the Rich Are Never Happy."  The article argues that the rich are not content because of the demands from others to share their wealth.  Moreover, it causes them... Read More

Anne C. Lee published an article entitled, "Cut the tax bite of gifting a variable annuity."  The article discusses the negative tax consequences for gifting a variable annuity.Posted by Shahzeb Gaziani, Senior Associate Editor, Wealth Strategies ... Read More

Robert Frank published an article entitled, "Top Five Signs That You're Wealthy."  The article looks at survey questions on what is considered to be financially wealthy.Posted by Shahzeb Gaziani, Senior Associate Editor, Wealth Strategies Journal.... Read More

Alex Trias published an article entitled, "Here's a Third Way to Determine When You Have Enough to Retire."  The article discusses and provides considerations for portfolios that would be needed for retirement.Posted by Shahzeb Gaziani, Senior Ass... Read More

Melissa A. Dizdarevic published a journal article entitled, "The FATCA Provisions of the Hire Act: Boldly Going Where No Withholding Has Gone Before."  In an effort to crack down on offshore tax evasion , the U.S. has increased the withholding... Read More

Robert Frank posted an article in the Wall Street Journal entitled, "Young, Rich and Shopping for a Mansion."  The article describes a british reality-TV show that follows a group of wealthy kids shopping for their starter mansion.Posted by Shahze... Read More

Dana G. Fitzsimons Jr. & Meghan L. Gehr published a newsletter entitled, "Recent Cases of Interest to Fiduciaries: Part 1 - Defenses and Limitations to Actions, Arbitration, and Settlements."  The articles describes a series of cases concernin... Read More

Robert Frank published an article in the Wall Street Journal entitled, "Remembering a Modest Billionaire."  The article looks back at the life of William Cook, the billionaire founder of Cook Medical.  Specifically, the article examines the d... Read More

Susan Adams published an article entitled, "Entrepreneurs: The 'Business' Gene."  The article discusses whether business acument and success is passed on from one generation to the next.Posted by Shahzeb Gaziani, Senior Associate Editor, Wealth St... Read More

Elliot Raphaelson published an article entitled, "The Savings Game: Putting off estate planning can leave a legacy of confusion."  The article discusses a list of concerns that happen by not having an estate plan ready before you pass away.  ... Read More

The IRS has published it's Linked Estate Tax-Form 1040 Data Tables and Estate Tax Filing for the year 2008.Posted by Shahzeb Gaziani, Senior Associate Editor, Wealth Strategies Journal.... Read More

Peter Melcher published an article entitled, "In-Plan Roth Conversions: Planning and Administrative Considerations."  The article discusses the impact the Small Business Jobs Act of 2010 has on Roth IRAs.  Specifically, the article discusses ... Read More

Philip Greenspurn published an article entitled, "Soft Housing Prices:  Maybe Americans just aren't dumb enough to keep buying houses?"  The article examines the housing market and suggests that market isn't soft but rather the consumer has e... Read More

The Wall Street Journal published an article entitled, "The IRS Gets Political."  The article examines the efforts of the IRS to tax political donations as a gift tax.Posted by Shahzeb Gaziani, Senior Associate Editor, Wealth Strategies Journal.... Read More

Scott Adams, the author of Dilbert comics has published a comic involving Estate Planning.Posted by Shahzeb Gaziani, Senior Associate Editor, Wealth Strategies Journal.... Read More

Robert Frank published an article in the Wall Street Journal entitled, "How the Rich Are Saving State Governments."  The article discusses how there was an increase in tax revenue from the wealthy which has enriched the state coffers.Posted by Sha... Read More

David J. Zumpano published an article entitled, "Irrevocable Pure Grantor Trusts:  The Estate Planning Landscape Has Changed."  The article discusses how the irrevocable pure grantor trust permit clients to have the protection of an irrevocab... Read More

Bill Singer published an article entitled, "Mother Sues Merrill Lynch Over Daughter's Guardianship."  This lawsuit was based on negligence by Merrill Lynch for failure to advise their client to diversify their assets.  Merrill provided emails... Read More

Emily Maltby published an article in the Wall Street Journal entitled, "Listen Up About Taxes, Family Firms Say."  The article describes a recent poll taken of family businesses to determine what they want congress to focus most on.  A near... Read More

 Karen DeMasters published an article entitled, "Celebrity Foibles Can Be Learning Tools For Advisors, Clients."  The article discusses how celebrities who have failed to properly plan their estates can provide interesting insight and awarene... Read More

Nick Rosen published an article and video interview entitled, "China's billionaires: Zong Qinghou, Boss of Wahaha."  The article and interview examines billionaire Zong Qinghou's business ventures and philanthropic philosophy.Posted by Shahze... Read More

 Kim Zetter published an article entitled, "Bank Not Responsible for Letting Hackers Steal $300K From Customer."  The article discusses a case where the court found that a bank is not legal liable for not implementing the "best" security avai... Read More

Robert W. Wood published an article entitled, "IRS Penalties Despite Reliance on Adviser."  The article advises taxpayers that reliance upon a tax adviser may not be enough to avoid liability.Posted by Shahzeb Gaziani, Senior Associate Editor, Wea... Read More

The Washington Examiner published an article entitled, "Retirement: Tax-smart ways to help your grandkids."  The article discusses various options for grandparents to receive a tax break by being generous to their grandchildren.Posted by Shahzeb G... Read More

The IRS issued announcement 2011-36 entitled, "IRS Seeks Comments on Form 990 (Annual Return for Tax-Exempt Organizations)."  The announcement invites public comments on the proposed redesign to the Form 990.Posted by Shahzeb Gaziani, Se... Read More

Gerry W. Beyer published a post entitled, "Court Holds that a Will Lacking a Residuary Clause Covered Non-Gifted Property."  The post summarizes that the First District Court of Appeals in Florida affirmed summary judgment in the case of Basile v.... Read More

MIchael Sisk published an article entitled, "How to Keep the Kids."  The article discusses the frustration of financial advisors for losing accounts when their clients children inherit the funds and pull it out.  The article goes on to discus... Read More

Arden Dale published an article entitled, "Why Your CPA Might Blab."  The article discusses the limited protection that accountants who work with lawyers have in not revealing conversations they had with their client.  Specifically, the artic... Read More

In analyzing investments in a tough market economy, it is important not to overlook certain tax benefit strategies.  Morningstar lists five tax saving methods that should be considered including:  examining the costs-basis records, ... Read More

The passing of Al Davis, the owner of the Oakland Raiders, could force the Davis family in the future to have to sell the team.  The future estate tax on the appreciation in value of the Oakland Raiders may make... Read More

A "Crummey" Trust gets it's name from the case Crummey v. Commissioner.  In a "Crummey" Trust, the grantor creates a trust where they deposit funds equivalent to the amount of a yearly gift exemption to pay for life insurance premiums... Read More

Len Burman of Forbes takes an intriguing look at the estate tax as a method that may help the fans of the Baltimore Orioles find a new owner some day.  The analysis looks at the situation happening with the passing... Read More

It's natural for a parent to admire certain qualities of one child over another.  What's important though is that the parents show love to each child.  However, playing financial favorites between children or grandchildren may give off a... Read More

The Fore Trust Software company has designed a software that incorporates directly into a firm's existing website.  The Virtual Estate Planning System (VEPS) allows a client to directly enter in their information and answer questions regarding the... Read More

For 2011 and 2012, there is an increase in the lifetime gift exemption from $1 million to $5 million.  This allows high net worth families to utilize various planning tools to exempt a greater amount of their wealth.  However, there is... Read More

The QTIP trust may reward certain income and property to one beneficiary while leaving a large tax burden on another beneficiary.  As such, in certain scenarios, it is advisable to be careful in how one enters into a QTIP trust.  Peter... Read More

Trying to decide whether to withdraw funds from your Roth IRA or from your 401(k) is a bit like trying your hand at fortune telling.  Making a determination of your future income earning potential and tax liability is a difficult task... Read More

Keeping the family house in the family after one's death is a time honored tradition.  However, there is a tax liability one may face by placing their child on the title of the property rather than allowing them to inherit... Read More

The carry-over basis analysis under the 2010 tax law has created a shift in how executors are valuing their assets.  While individualized taxation analysis is still needed, there is a noticeable incentive to value assets higher under the 2010 tax... Read More

PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP released their 2012 Guide to Tax and Wealth Management.  A free online downloadable copy is available for the public to view.  The guide addresses the changing landscape of wealth management and taxation.  Some... Read More

In an interview with Harvey Mackay, Dan Schawbel gets the founder and CEO of MackayMitchell Envelope Company to discuss his latest book.  The interview discusses ways to be a great salesperson, make a difference in the world, and tips for fin... Read More

The $5 million net asset exclusion from the estate tax may provide a false hope for some that they do not need to engage in estate planning.  However, taxes are not the only concern that one should consider.  There may... Read More

Leaving behind funds for taking care of your family members is often the primary motive of estate planning.  However, many individuals in their lives have been heavily involved with charitable work and it is logical for them to want to... Read More

In a yearly ritual of agony, taxpayers spend hours on tax software or their accountants to find out how much they must give (or get back) from Uncle Sam.  As such, it is no surprise that there is a lot... Read More

There is a concern that future tax changes by congress may make current estate planning futile.  However, there are certain estate planning strategies that should be considered in order to take full advantage of future provisions and are considere... Read More

In filing for taxes, one should be aware of the various tax benefits that will increase for 2012.  These benefits include tax deductions for medical savings accounts, student loans, and exlusions for estate taxes.   See Ann Hynek, "Some ... Read More

The 2010 Tax Relief Act included a $5 million exemption from estate and gift taxes.  However, it also allows the estate to utilize unused estate tax exemption of the predeceasing spouse.  This portability is set to expire soon.    S... Read More

In tough business and economic times, every tool available to an investor should be utilized to the best of their ability.  This also include tax strategies dealing with losing investments, capital purchase, charity, and other financial matters.&n... Read More

Different states have different taxes.  Some states have an inheritance tax.  Others have an estate tax.  New Jersey has both.    See Liz Skinner, "Don't Die in New Jersey," investmentnews.com (Nov. 06, 2011).   Posted by ... Read More

The American College of Trust and Estate Counsel sent a letter to the tax writing committees of the United States Congress recommending certain changes to the tax law system.  Their recommendations span different topics including marital deduction... Read More

As investor confidence has been shaken to its core, not even sovereign notes have survived skepticism.  As such, investment advisors have concentrated their efforts to help wealthy investors preserve their capital by investing in hard assets ... Read More

Summitas is an online platform where high net worth individuals and groups can register to be connected to information on financial topics, securing valuables, and other valuable information.  As well, it allows users to connect with other financi... Read More

Despite the well planned legal mechanism available, at some point wealthy estates may have to pay an estate tax.  While this could take out a sizable portion of an estate, financial planners working along side insurers are offering wealthy cl... Read More

In a survey, wealthy Americans stated they did not trust their heirs with managing the inheritance.  Ironically enough, nearly all plan to leave their wealth to their heirs.  As well, sixty percent of wealthy Americans stated they would need ... Read More

It is often commented that the tax code is progressive because the wealthy pay more in taxes than others.  However, often missed is the number of tax loopholes and shelters that require complex financial planning which can only be afford... Read More

In order to protect financial institutions from experiencing a bank run during irregular financial stress, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) was created to protect deposit at financial institutions.  By providing a guarantee, it is ... Read More

The congressional super committee's failure to reach an agreement is creating concerns for a variety of different groups.  One group are farmers who have less certainty with regards to the estate tax on farms.  With 2012 being an election yea... Read More

The law currently allows forty percent of the value of land used for the purposes of conservation to be exempted from the estate tax.  This is capped at $500,000.  The American Family Farm and Ranchland Protection Act would raise the exc... Read More

In light of the congressional supercommittee's failure to resolve the debt concerns, the issue of what the future tax rates will be is left in limbo.  In light of this predicament, Laura Sanders provides some suggestions on what taxpayers sho... Read More

Financial advisory services tend to be costly and in some cases exclusively for high net worth individuals.  Wealthfront, the company that brought the public investing site called kaChing, is seeking to change that with their own online financial ... Read More

For high net worth clients, mandatory withdrawals could come with a hefty tax bill.  As such, advisors suggest taking advantage of the early withdrawal period when no penalty applies to withdraw a portion in order to lower the tax burden.... Read More

Wendy S. Goffe published a paper that explores the origins of health care directives and various religious implications.   See Wendy S. Goffe, "An Estate Planners Roadmap to the - Fear No Evil," ssrn.com (Nov. 03, 2011).   h/t Gerry... Read More

As the year comes to a close, there are many tax issues that have been left unresolved.  These uncertainties are causing concerns for businesses and are likely going to be revisited in 2012.  Among the issues are:  cost-basis, loss caryo... Read More

In the holiday seasons, you are probably more concerned about the shopping sales and purchasing gifts for your loved ones.  However, there are many financial opportunities to save on taxes.  These include:  IRA distributions, college sav... Read More

In more celebrity news, rapper Shad Gregory Moss a.k.a. Bow Wow (formerly known as Lil Bow Wow) has an IRS tax lien against him.  While it may seem like a very large ordeal that went through for a tax lien... Read More

The tax code provides for many benefits to married couples.  However, if you are unmarried but cohabitating and sharing various financial accounts, then you may face some added problems.  This is particularly problematic in regards to health ... Read More

According to a new study in the book "Preparing Heirs," Victor Preisser and Roy Williams note that 70% of family wealth transference and business succession plans fail.  This statistic should encourage those who are looking to make an estate plan... Read More

If you are in the holiday spirit then it is advisable, from a tax perspective, to give now rather than later.  The current gift tax deduction may be in danger of being reduced to 28% next year under a proposal... Read More

Mandatory arbitration clauses in contracts can limit a claimants rights to have their case heard in a court.  This can be especially difficult on the elderly with regards to their long-term care contracts in cases of neglect.  There are some... Read More

Christmas morning puts a smile on millions of children all across the country.  However, the children don't necessarily have to be the only ones with a smile on their faces.  By providing certain gifts to children, parents can ensure that... Read More

Huguette Clark's estate's accountant and lawyers are dismissed under accusation of failing to properly account for the estate's taxes.  However, there is also concern that the heiress may have been involved in the possible fraud.   See "Taxes... Read More

The New York Times publishes a list of small business articles from the year they found to be helpful.  The articles examine a variety of different topic areas that address running a small business.   See Gene Marks, "This Year... Read More

Dividend funds have had a very good year and more investors are looking at them.  However, the price-to-earnings ratio for traditionally strong dividend stocks are higher than the S&P average.  The price for dividend stocks presents the q... Read More

Tax evasion has become a popular political theme.  In movies and popular stories swiss banks have been known for their bank secrecy tradition.  However, often overlooked is the role of small banks in hiding bank identities which leads to tax... Read More

Estate planning is generally considered to be a good idea.  However, not realizing that each individual will need to have an estate plan that is tailored to their needs and future outlook is not the best idea.  Specifically, factors such... Read More

A small change that will likely have a huge impact on private placement investments was recently passed by the SEC.  In calculating a person's net wealth to determine if they are considered an accredited investor, the SEC will no longer... Read More

As the saying goes, you only get one shot to make a good first impression.  In difficult economic environments, the first impression may be the only opportunity you have to impress a prospective employer.  Forbes magazine has laid out some... Read More

It was a difficult and acrimonious year for the President and Congress.  Taxes, spending, and the deficit caused for many battles.  However, approaching an election year for both the Congress and the President will present new challenges... Read More

While the economy is still sluggish to say the least, there are a lot of very happy people in silicon valley.  Many new internet companies have had their IPO and with it newly minted millionaires (and billionaires).  For financial companies,... Read More

A hobby is usually something we do in our spare time or as an escape from the world.  However, if properly structured and planned, the costs of a hobby can be turned into a tax deduction.  Specifically, if the activities i... Read More

Large financial brokerages used to shun the sight of anyone with less than $250,000 in net assets, considering them not worthy to spend time on.  Oh how a financial crisis changes everything.  Today large financial brokerages are developing p... Read More

Facebook's upcoming IPO is sure to mint many new millionaires.  However, with the new found wealth comes a new tax bill.  For Mark Zuckerberg that tax liability could be over one billion dollars.   See Rik Myslewski, "Zuckerberg's 2012 p... Read More

The great recession has caused many institutions to reexamine the causes of the financial meltdown.  Specifically, the lack of standards for providing credit has cause many individuals who were once deemed credit worthy to no longer be able t... Read More

As the new year begins, scores of people join a local gym promising to get themselves in better shape this year.  Alas, such decisions don't have much staying power and end up resulting in financial waste.  In much the same... Read More