Family Trusts & Trustors (Series 400: Owners and Sellers)

Knowing what is likely to take place with property interests after a person's death can help that person to prepare a better trust instrument before his or her death. This tax guide imparts the necessary knowledge for individuals to take a more decisive hand in clarifying the fine points and intentions of their trusts. Explained are the working components of a trust, the 'why' of transfer taxation, the tax returns required, life estates for surviving spouses, the role of charitable remainders, and the special valuation rules for appreciated property, family farms and businesses, and other family wealth. This books cautions against using family trusts as a tax shelter and entrepreneurial enterprise, explains the taxation process before property transfers become irrevocable, and stresses the various tax exclusions.