Estate planning

Gifting has long been a favorite strategy in estate planning to reduce taxes, but tax changes in recent years means it might be time to reconsider when it's best to use it.

Many retirees fail to boost savings after their last child leaves the house, and instead go on a spending spree that can last for years; Plus, how to make volatility work for you.

Clients can consider gifting up to $14,000 to as many individuals each year before gift taxes kick in.

When clients have assets in several states, the legal and tax pitfalls in estate planning multiply, says attorney Allen Falke.

Even those with significant health issues may never need to pay for nursing home care.

The advisor, who worked at U.S. Bank, claimed that he was fired in retaliation for complaining about a co-worker who he felt made unsuitable investments for the advisor's 94-year-old client.

An estate planning tool that is particularly valuable when rates are low is coming under political pressure.

There are myriad financial and estate planning issues that must be re-evaluated to ensure tax efficiency and wealth transfer continuity. Here's what advisors should consider.

A landmark Supreme Court ruling ironed out many but not all of the wrinkles in the legal landscape for gay clients.

The landmark Supreme Court decision means same-sex spouses are now entitled to equal protection under the laws of every state, but it's still vital to plan proactively, writes attorney Matthew T. McClintock.

Surviving spouses will require hands-on help from their advisors to get important tasks done -- before and after a loved one's death.

Surviving spouses will require hands-on help from their advisors to get important tasks done -- before and after a loved one's death.

The ranks of the ultrawealthy are graying, and many are trying to figure out what their legacy will be.

Financial advice sometimes includes relationship guidance. Here are a few strategies I use when talking to clients about prenuptial agreements.

"Clients balk at giving even a close relative a POA that is immediately effective, (but) really, if you are going to trust someone with your finances when you’re incapacitated, you should be able to trust them when you know what’s going on."

Aging parents could alleviate stress and possible tension if they share their final wishes with their children -- or at the very least, where their accounts are held.

Aging parents could alleviate stress and possible tension if they share their final wishes with their children -- or at the very least, where their accounts are held.

In the first few days after the 7.9-magnitude earthquake, Fidelity Charitable grants sent $2M to aid victims; Schwab Charitable grants added another $568,000.

Adopting the skills of an anthropologist can empower advisors to help wealthy clients mend troubled family relations before it's too late.

Changes in both demographics and tax laws require a massive rethinking of estate planning strategies. Here are a few of the minefields that planners should avoid.