Estate Planning
News, insights and expert analysis on estate planning from the team at Kiplinger.
Latest
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Estate Planning Checklist: 5 Tasks to Prioritize
Doing these things now, while you're still physically and mentally healthy, can smooth an already-difficult and emotional process when the time comes.
By Martin Baker, CFP®, CEPA®
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The 5 W's of Successful Estate Plan-Focused Family Meetings
Good family meetings bring clarity to estate plans and strengthen bonds. Poor ones turn into ugly battles. This simple tool will help you avoid the drama.
By Michael Schneider
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What Really Happens in the First 30 Days After Someone Dies
The administrative requirements following a death move quickly. This is how to ensure your loved ones won't be plunged into chaos during a time of distress.
By Howard A. Enders
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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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Gift Tax Exclusion 2026: How Much You Can Give Tax‑Free This Year
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
