Lifetime gifts are a popular way to reduce estate and inheritance taxes. Here in 2023, only estates worth $12.92 million or more are subject to the federal estate tax. Twelve states and the District of Columbia levy an additional estate or inheritance tax. To lower their taxable estate at death, an individual may consider giving gifts […]
Trusts
The Life and Legacy of Jimmy Buffett from Austin Estate Planning Attorney Liz Nielsen
Jimmy Buffett died on September 1, 2023, at age 76 after a diagnosis of Merkel cell carcinoma (skin cancer) four years earlier. He was a renowned singer-songwriter, film producer, businessman, novelist, and philanthropist. Buffett released his first album, Down to Earth, in 1970. By 2023, his net worth was officially $1 billion,[1] including a $180 million stake in […]
Can Artificial Intelligence Programs Write Basic Estate Planning Documents? from Austin Estate Planning Attorney Liz Nielsen
With the increased coverage of artificial intelligence (AI) and all of the applications it can have in our everyday lives, some people may wonder whether an AI program can create an estate plan for them. While AI may be able to generate basic estate planning documents, including wills and trusts, there is no guarantee that […]
Blindsided: The Michael Oher Conservatorship Controversy Explained from Austin Estate Planning Attorney Liz Nielsen
Michael Oher has had a remarkable life so far. Born to a single mother struggling with addiction and growing up in and out of foster care, Oher went on to star as a University of Mississippi football player and was selected in the first round of the 2009 NFL draft. He played eight seasons in […]