Where many succession plans go off the rails, is when they focus solely on the economics of the business. That may work fine for a corporation, but for a family business, the dynamics and relationships of the family members must…
The gift tax is a tax on the transfer of assets, cash or property, to another without receiving something of equal value. The asset has to be of a certain value for the tax to apply; otherwise, it falls under…
Both banks and financial advisors are starting to take a more pro-active role in preventing financial abuse. It’s common sense, since they are often the first to see questionable transactions. Don’t be surprised if your next visit to a financial…
The statistics on baby boomer’s retirement savings are not encouraging. The same generation that was famous for picture-perfect childhoods, may be facing some tough realities as they age. About half of the baby boomers are already in retirement. Those are…
Getting married without a prenup was okay when he was just a hedge fund guy. However, there are some steps that Jeff Bezos could have taken as his wealth grew, to protect himself and his company. When personal wealth is…
Welcome to the new decade, replete with new challenges to protect yourself against ever-inventive scam artists. One concern has a simple fix but requires your commitment to add two additional digits when signing or writing documents, letters, emails, and more.…
You’ll need a brave soul with a backbone to make the hard, sometimes unpopular decisions on your behalf, if you become incapacitated. Designating a health care proxy is like picking a guardian for your children, only it’s for yourself. Who…
A state law that imposed work requirements on low-income Medicaid recipients in Arkansas and Kentucky was struck down by a federal judge, who noted that the requirements are counter to the mission of the program goal: to provide health care…
Although owning a property with family may let you pass on the asset without going through probate, there are several risks, including taxes, creditor exposure, and loss of control. So when dealing with property, it is important to consider these…
Not everyone is ready to receive an inheritance. Some are too young, others are elderly and vulnerable, while still others can’t manage large sums of money. That’s what trusts and good estate plans are for. If you have to think…