Estate Planning
News, insights and expert analysis on estate planning from the team at Kiplinger.
Latest
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Why Your Pet Should Be In Your Estate Plan — Yes, Really
Including your wishes in your will or in a pet trust can ensure proper care when you can’t provide it.
By Richard Eisenberg
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Silence Is Golden, But It Can Hurt Heirs More Than You Think
Talking to heirs about transferring wealth can be overwhelming, but avoiding it now can lead to conflict later. Here's how to start sharing your plans.
By Julie Virta, CFP®, CFA, CTFA
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Why a Good Legacy Plan Covers Values, Not Just Valuables
Legacy planning integrates your values and stories with legal and tax strategies to ensure your influence benefits loved ones and good causes after you're gone.
By Myles J. McHale, Jr. AIF®, CRPP®
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What is the Gift Tax Exclusion for 2025 and 2026?
Gift Tax Knowing the annual gift tax exemption can save you time and money.
By Kelley R. Taylor
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A Financial Planner Answers 10 Common Gift Tax Questions
taxes Generous gifts can have tax consequences, but in general, only very wealthy people need to worry about gift taxes. Still, there could be IRS paperwork involved.
By David Jaeger, CFP®
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16 Retirement Mistakes You Will Regret Forever
From saving too little to claiming Social Security too early, there are plenty of ways that current and future retirees can sabotage their golden years.
By Bob Niedt
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When Estate Plans Don't Include Tax Plans, All Bets Are Off
Estate plans aren't as effective as they can be if tax plans are considered separately. Here's what you stand to gain when the two strategies are aligned.
By Paul Buckle, CPA, CFP®
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My wife wants to use our $6.1 million for charity — I want a lake house.
We are 62 and finally retired after decades of hard work. I see the lakehouse as an investment in our happiness.
By Maurie Backman
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Why Charitable Remainder Trusts Team With Donor-Advised Funds
If a charitable remainder trust puts too many constraints on your family's charitable giving, consider combining it with a donor-advised fund for more control.
By Mark Marrazzo
