One Common Estate Tax Error That Could Cost You
Takeaways Many families make the costly mistake of not filing an estate tax return when the first spouse dies, even when no taxes are due. If they fail to file IRS Form 706, the surviving spouse loses the valuable benefit of estate tax portability, which allows them...
What to Do When Someone Is Contesting a Will
Takeaways A will contest occurs when someone challenges the validity of a deceased person’s will, potentially delaying probate, increasing costs, and straining family relationships. Common grounds for challenging a will include undue influence, fraud, improper...
Estate Planning and the Autopen Debate
Takeaways The controversy surrounding President Joe Biden’s use of an autopen highlights such critical estate planning issues as consent and mental capacity, which are also central to challenging wills and trusts. Just as a president’s signature signifies intent and...