The generation skipping tax (GST) is a federal tax that applies when someone transfers assets directly to a beneficiary who is at least two generations younger, such as a grandchild. This tax aims to prevent wealthy families from avoiding estate taxes by skipping an...
Month: December 2024
Why you should update your will after getting an inheritance
Receiving an inheritance can bring significant financial changes to your life. Along with the potential to improve your financial situation, though, an inheritance also brings the responsibility to ensure that you properly manage and distribute it. One of the most...
The difference between conservatorship and guardianship
Conservatorship and guardianship are legal tools used to protect people who can’t manage their own affairs. While they are sometimes confused, these two roles are different and serve separate purposes. Knowing the difference helps you understand which one fits a...
How do new Medi-Cal eligibility rules affect living trusts?
Recent changes to Medi-Cal eligibility rules are affecting how people plan their estates and use living trusts in California. These changes can change how people organize their assets to qualify for benefits and protect their loved ones. It is important to understand...
How do special needs trusts affect taxes?
Understanding the tax responsibilities of special needs trusts is crucial for effective financial planning. Special needs trusts can be either first-party or third-party, and each type has different tax implications. Knowing how taxes work with these trusts helps...