Posted by Robert L. Arone – Community property trusts can save your clients tens of thousands of dollars in capital gains taxes, and that is just one of their many benefits. This lesser-known strategy is not necessarily the best fit for all couples either because of their assets or state of residence. However, for households you work with that can make the most of them, it is a planning tactic that could have a significant impact on keeping more of the value of their estates in the family. These trusts offer a huge benefit to couples who take advantage of them. There’s also a lot to gain for their financial advisors. Thanks to the double step-up for property held in this type of trust, your clients will retain a significant amount of wealth that would otherwise go to the IRS because of capital gains tax. So it is a solution

Posted by Robert L. Arone – 2017 is fast approaching – my is time flying by. It seems like only yesterday we were in the midst of primary debates and a long election season. But with the new year comes a chance to recalibrate how you serve your clients and help them deal with the inevitable changes of life. The more you can meet their needs in a holistic fashion – even when that means working to get things done for them that are outside your core responsibility – the better and deeper relationships you’ll enjoy. To that end, consider segmenting your clients and prospects so you can meet them “where they’re at.” Here are four types of clients you likely serve. Let’s think about how to approach them about estate planning and related needs in 2017… Your Four Types of Potential Estate Planning Clients Category 1: People who believe