Articles Categorized as Estate Planning

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Gifting

With the Christmas season it seems like a good time to talk about legal consequences of gifting.  Of course I’m referring to gifting from an estate planning perspective.  With the possible major changes coming in estate tax law, the estate tax implications may change but many other issues wil... continue reading »

Transfer on Death Deeds

A law was passed several years ago that basically allows you to put beneficiaries on your home.  You should sign and record this deed now but it has no affect until you pass away – meaning you can sell or refinance without needing the beneficiaries to consent or sign anything.  You can also r... continue reading »

Estate Settlement

As an estate planner I often work with the entire family.  My initial discussion is usually with mom and dad as we work together to put their estate plan documents in place.  Many times, mom and dad want to bring the child that is appointed to act on their behalf to a meeting to give the child ... continue reading »

Beneficiary Designations

Have you reviewed your beneficiary designations?  Beneficiary designations are a way in which we identify who we want to give an asset to after we pass away.  A common beneficiary designation for most people is the form you completed when you became eligible to participate in your employer’s ... continue reading »

Minnesota Estate Tax

When is your estate subject to estate tax?  Minnesota is one of a handful of states that assess a tax on your estate when you pass away if certain limits are met.  This type of tax is often referred to as a death tax and is assessed against the entire value of your estate.  In contrast ... continue reading »

Will Based vs. Trust Based Estate Plan (Part 1)

Have you found yourself walking away from a conversation with a friend or family member and you were convinced you needed a Will?  Or you attended one of those “free meal” seminars where you were sold on the idea that you had to have a Trust?  Navigating the options in estate planning can b... continue reading »