How Estate Taxes May Impact your Life Insurance Policy

In the process of estate planning, there are many things to consider. An estate planning attorney can be essential to formulating a sound plan that is best tailored to your individual situation and long-term legacy. Life insurance is a staple of many estate plans, but there is one factor that is often overlooked when people start thinking…

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"We are Family": Estate Planning for Adult Children Living at Home

With the state of the economy, the low unemployment rate for graduates, and the general cost of living, many children are continuing to live with their parents long after they turn eighteen.  Having an adult child live with you can simultaneously be a benefit and a burden.  Children at home can assist with the tasks…

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Same-Sex Marriage Estate Tax Milestone

Recently, with a landmark decision in U.S. v. Windsor, the U.S. Supreme Court has determined that a stipulation of the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) is unconstitutional. The decision in this benchmark case paves the way for gay couples to receive tax refunds on taxes paid because the federal government didn’t recognize their marriage. The…

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Estate Planning for Young Adults

Turning eighteen is a milestone for many reasons.  You are legally an adult, with the ability to vote, and you may be heading off to college or starting a career.  The future is upon you, the world is your oyster, and any other number of clichés.  Regardless of where you are headed, it is most likely…

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Celebrity Estate Planning Mistakes to Avoid

In an interesting article, Fox Business delved into the “Monumental Estate Planning Blunders of 5 Celebrities.”  The piece looks at estate planning mistakes made from some well-known, now-deceased stars who’s estate ended up out of their hands. Leona Helmsley, widow of real estate tycoon Harry Helmsely, famously left a $12 million dollar trust to her dog, Trouble.  Ultimately, this only served to cause trouble…

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Estate Planning Faux Pas

Estate planning is important. If you haven’t already considered an estate plan, there is no time like the present.  When considering how to start this process, you should consider professional advice.  Fields and Dennis has years of experience under its belt and can help you produce an estate plan that is secure, cares for all…

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Estate Planning and Second Marriages

If you are thinking about remarriage after a divorce, there is much to consider.  Second marriages have become far more common in recent years, as divorce rates and life expectancy both increase.  While pursuing a life with someone you love is an exciting endeavor, especially after the initial devastation that a divorce can cause, there…

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Estate Planning Lessons from Downton Abbey

A recent article from The Wall Street Journal offered “Money Lessons from Downton Abbey.”  The popular British drama that takes place in the early 20th century recently ended its third season, but more important than providing entertainment, it can apparently offer valuable estate planning advice.  While it is a period drama and work of fiction,…

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Study Says Stories are Most Valued Inheritance

In a 2012 survey by the Allianz Life Insurance Company of North America, it was determined that family stories are more important to many than material inheritance. The American Legacies Pulse Study surveyed baby boomers (age 47-66) and elders (72+) and concluded that 86% of baby boomers and 74% of elders surveyed deemed their family’s…

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Disinheriting Someone Isn't Always Easy

The desire to disinherit someone from a will isn’t always as negative as it sounds. While most times individuals are disinherited out of anger or pride, it isn’t unheard of to desire one person to receive more or less of an estate due to financial and personal need. However, there are certain rules and guidelines to take into consideration…

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