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 | | If you leave a legacy today of more than $2,000,000 to anyone other than your spouse-even to your children-the marginal federal estate tax rate can range from 43% to 48% in 2004. You may not think you have that much, but when you consider the value of your home, retirement plan and life insurance, you can easily exceed that number. In addition, many states now have separate taxation due upon death as well. |
| | The primary purpose of estate planning is to ensure an orderly transfer of property to whomever you see fit. Without a strategy to accomplish this, your heirs might encounter problems including an inappropriate distribution of your assets, the care for minor children left in the hands of a court, settlement costs and administrative fees that deplete the value of your estate. |
| | A common error people make is to assume that estate planning only refers to dying. In fact, an important part of estate planning is to take the appropriate steps to ensure management of your financial affairs if you become disabled or terminally ill. |
| | Giving gifts - either to loved ones or to a loved charity - is not only fulfilling, but also an important strategy for maximizing your legacy. Charitable giving techniques can potentially eliminate capital gains taxes and/or lower your income and estate taxes. |
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