Estate taxes

The drastic changes are shaking up the status quo of estate planning. Here’s how financial planners need to change their approach.

The estate of Michael Jackson looks to have escaped a possibly hefty penalty for allegedly undervaluing the late singer’s assets.

“We’ve had tons and tons of interest from clients," one expert says.

Financial planners report wide demand to learn how to exploit changes in the tax code.

When giving cash gifts to grandchildren this holiday season, clients have options that can also help minimize their estate taxes in the future.

The proposal includes changes in everything from the corporate tax rate to Obamacare.

The uncertain tax and legislative environment means that year-end tax planning is more important than usual. To help clients and businesses prepare for filing season, here are helpful tips.

“It would almost be irresponsible if you weren’t thinking about moving,” says Bruce McGuire, founder of the Connecticut Hedge Fund Association.

Homeowners from both parties worry that rising property taxes could force them to sell.

Planners should help clients navigate complex transactions to ensure risk is mitigated as much as possible.

The federal exemption does not cancel out key planning matters affecting everyone at death.

The first step is to account for any obligations or costs, an expert says.

For some clients, the amount of income that would fall into the zero tax bracket will increase by 3%, a far cry from the doubling that's been ballyhooed.

Business owners with high business incomes ― who currently face a top rate of 39.6% ― are in for major tax relief, policy analysts said.

Details matter, explains an expert, like where their boat is docked.

Most Republicans support killing the estate tax as part of a tax overhaul, but doing so could have dire consequences.

A checklist for advisors who have clients looking to launch a new business.

Most fortunes disappear by the time grandchildren have taken control.

Many of the president's "core principles" were similar to promises he made on the campaign trail, including a reduction to 15% in the rate for businesses.

Bequests, endowments and other gifts demand expertise beyond traditional tax and estate help.