Low interest rates creatre great opportunity for some estate planning tools and a4e disadvantages for other tools, This article discusses the opportunities and dangers of tools when interests rates are lower. It also addresses those tools which are not very much affected by interest rates.

There is much talk about repeal of the federal estate tax. Here is the latest information we have.

Senators Graham and Miller have introduced Senate Bill 35 which repeals the marriage penality, phases out the estate tax over nine years, reduces marginal income tax rates, increases the child tax credit to $1,000, expands education saving accounts, makes it easier to donate IRAs and Retirement funds to charity, and permanently extends the research and experimentation credit.

The IRS has promulgated new Minimum Distribution Rules for IRAs and Retirment Plans. A brief summary of key changes is provided. Later we will provide a more comprehensive review.

In blended famlies, there is often a tension between step-mom and step-children over how assets are invested. Step-mon is usually given the "income" for life and children given the remainder after step-mom dies. How assets are invested influences the amount of income and also influences the growth of principal. Children generally receive principal. This new proposed regulation and advancements in Michigan law provide a solution and an opportunity for asset management to professionals and their clients.

A short summary of pending legislation for federal estate tax "reform."