With current estate tax rates running as high as 55%, an unplanned estate could cost your heirs more than half of your net worth! For people like yourself, estate taxes can be the largest single tax expense that you will ever face. Apex CPAs & Consultants, Inc. can assist you in formulating and implementing various estate planning strategies to minimize this tax burden.

What is the first step?

The first step is developing an estate plan. This includes reviewing current wills, trusts, insurance policies and other assets. Typically, we assist an individual in preparing detailed personal financial statements in order to effectively value the estate. These statements provide one’s spouse and/or executor with an excellent summary of assets within the estate. We can also assist an individual in preparing a “spousal letter”. A spousal letter, while not a legal document, provides valuable information to one’s spouse and/or executor concerning personal wishes or desires, location of certain assets and burial details.

Apex CPAs & Consultants, Inc. prepares a number of estate, gift and trust returns annually. Planning strategies are very important to keep combined estate and income taxes to a minimum. Without proper planning, deductions can be lost and income can be taxed at higher rates than necessary. Let our experience benefit you!