One of the various roles of an Executor is to make sure that all estate debts are paid. In particular, an Executor needs to make sure any tax liability of the deceased during their lifetime or of … [Read more...] about The Tax Man Cometh …….
Estate Planning
Are you at your (super) limit…?
The preparation of your estate plan involves a number of matters, especially the payment of your superannuation death benefit. From 1 July 2017 a “Transfer Balance Cap” was introduced. In broad … [Read more...] about Are you at your (super) limit…?
A little respect …. for my wishes!
I often write about the importance of having a valid Will. You might have been as surprised as I was to learn that Aretha Franklin, “the Queen of Soul”, died without a formal Will. By not making … [Read more...] about A little respect …. for my wishes!
The Curse Of The Home-made Will Strikes Again!
I have written previously about the pitfalls of home-made Wills. Although it may sound like I’m trying to drum up business in recommending your Will be prepared by a solicitor, there is some … [Read more...] about The Curse Of The Home-made Will Strikes Again!
Is It The End Or Just The Beginning…
Divorce, ending a de facto relationship or ending a civil partnership can be emotionally difficult but have you ever thought what happens to your Will if these events occur? Under the Succession … [Read more...] about Is It The End Or Just The Beginning…
A Matter of Trust
Many clients who we assist with their estate planning have involvement in a Trust. When the Trust is established, it comes with a ‘rule book’ known as the Trust Deed. The rule book sets out … [Read more...] about A Matter of Trust
DO YOU REALLY WANT THE GRANDCHILDREN TO INHERIT?
Consider this scenario: You have 2 children. Child A and Child B. Child A has one child (your grandchild). You give your estate equally to Child A and Child B in your Will. If Child A … [Read more...] about DO YOU REALLY WANT THE GRANDCHILDREN TO INHERIT?
IN ONE YEAR AND OUT THE OTHER…
For a lot of people, a New Year’s Resolution is something that goes in one year and out the other…. The start of the new year is the ideal time for you to review and update your estate … [Read more...] about IN ONE YEAR AND OUT THE OTHER…
A promise is a promise… or is it made to be broken?
What does a little old lady, her Sydney Harbour mansions, her neighbours and a promise have in common? The Supreme Court of New South Wales recently had to consider that very point! The Court … [Read more...] about A promise is a promise… or is it made to be broken?
The Uncertainties of Death – Part 4
This is the fourth in our series of articles on the uncertainties of death. Myth – “I can defeat a challenge to my Will from a family member by making a token gift to them in my Will”. Wrong! If a … [Read more...] about The Uncertainties of Death – Part 4