Trusts and Estates
Learn which trust is best for which clients, the tax benefits of different estate planning strategies and how to transfer wealth responsibly, as well as estate planning techniques that benefit families with special needs
LTCI, family and the estate plan strategy
By Ed McCarthy, CFP, RICPMost insureds, including those who can afford the premiums, don't like paying for LTCI because they might not use the coverage. One way to avoid that argument is to reposition the cost by having clients view the premiums as a gift to their children.
March 11, 2011
BofA Won't Extend 'Garden Leave' to Merrill AdvisorsBank of America has informed its Merrill Lynch advisors that, unlike their counterparts at U.S. Trust, they will not be asked to sign an agreement and go on reduced-pay “garden leave” if they resign, a company spokesperson confirmed Friday. Plus, the Bank of America-U.S. Trust unit hires 6 advisors from...
March 08, 2011
Your Legacy: Will Your Heirs Pay for State or Local Debt?Does your estate plan include bigger municipal debt, at higher rates, for your children and grandchildren? If you vote for state bankruptcy, it might.
March 03, 2011
Tax Planning Advice: Grantor Trust Income—Martin ShenkmanA counterintuitive but valuable strategy: have the grantor pay tax on trust income.
March 02, 2011
Tax Planning Advice: 2010 Tax Law Gifting Strategies—Benjamin LedyardThe 2010 Tax Act offers a tantalizing opportunity for wealth transfer through gift strategies. But it may sunset in two years.
March 01, 2011
A Star is MadeWhen it comes to hiring junior advisors, virtually every advisor I’ve ever seen wants to hire a star: some youngster with a resume’ that will knock your—and their—stocks off.
February 28, 2011
Estate and Gift Taxes Reunited: Estate Planning for 2011 and Voices of 2010The 2010 Tax Act delivers solid benefits for the estates of those dying in next two years: a higher exemption, lower tax rates, and an especially generous portability provision for unused exemptions between spouses.
February 18, 2011
BofA’s Krawcheck Expands Resignation Pact, Rules to Include U.S. Trust FAsThe policies affect departing U.S. Trust advisors and are not likely to be applied to Merrill reps, experts say.