Clearwater Estate Tax Planning Attorney
"You can't take it with you." But you should be able to leave it to loved ones without excessive taxation. Trying to keep up on the debates in Congress or the rhetoric and rumors all around is a challenge.
The federal estate tax was decreased during the last administration and was scheduled to return to previous levels in 2011. Congress has been fine-tuning tax rates to reduce the federal deficit, but also to avoid hampering economic recovery or unfairly burdening those we leave behind. The rates may be different from year to year.
The tax is only on estates over a certain amount (the "exemption"), $5 million, in 2011. The top rate is 35 percent. In coming years, the exemption will probably decrease to $1 million and the rate increase to 55 percent — hence, the importance of consulting an experienced attorney to avoid losing wealth your loved ones should receive in inheritance.
AV Preeminent* rated, Master of Laws in Elder Law, member of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (NAELA), member of the Academy of Florida Elder Law Attorneys (AFELA)
Asset Protection
Your estate consists of everything you own when you die. Unfortunately, you can't simply give your money away before you die, to avoid the estate tax: The gift tax applies over a certain amount.
Attorney Susan Charles at The Charles Law Offices is always current on the laws that affect people planning for their estates. She holds a Juris Doctor and an LL.M. (Master of Laws, an advanced law degree) in Elder Law. She is pleased to speak to both public and private groups about gift and estate tax planning to benefit the people and charities you care about. Our office dispels myths and confusion about these important matters and provides comprehensive legal services to people in the Tampa Bay area.
Contact a dedicated Palm Harbor gift tax lawyer who will provide you with personalized service and the attention to detail necessary to address your goals regarding the passing of your estate, qualifying for Medicaid, and guiding your loved ones in the event of your death.
The Charles Law Offices practices estate tax planning, probate, Medicaid planning, and guardianship; provides other Elder Law services; and serves Pinellas County, Hillsborough County, the Tampa Bay area, and clients statewide and nationwide. We offer flat fees for many services — no hidden costs or padded hourly rates.
*AV Preeminent and BV Distinguished are certification marks of Reed Elsevier Properties Inc., used in accordance with the Martindale-Hubbell certification procedures, standards and policies. Martindale-Hubbell is the facilitator of a peer review rating process. Ratings reflect the confidential opinions of members of the bar and the judiciary. Martindale-Hubbell ratings fall into two categories: legal ability and general ethical standards.
