Category Archives: Estate Planning
Florida Could Increase Homestead Exemptions: How Does This Affect Estate Planning?
In late May of 2026, Governor DeSantis announced a new proposal to drastically cut property taxes in the Sunshine State. The measure would increase property tax exemptions to such an extent that many homeowners could completely forget about this financial burden. If this bill passes into law, it may have major implications for estate… Read More »
Lesser-Known Types of Irrevocable Trusts in St. Petersburg
Irrevocable trusts in St. Petersburg are immensely popular, and people appreciate the flexibility of these estate planning tools. But while irrevocable trusts share many common features, there are many different types to consider. Consider discussing your options with an estate planning lawyer in St. Petersburg to ensure you choose the right irrevocable trust. The… Read More »
How Much Cash Should I Set Aside in My Florida Revocable Living Trust?
A revocable living trust is a highly effective estate planning tool for numerous Florida residents. When you pass away, your beneficiaries may need to immediately access cash to pay for urgent expenses. How much cash should you set aside for this purpose? Is this really necessary, or should you go “all in” on stocks… Read More »
Estate Planning Steps in Florida You Need to Take Before Your Teen Turns 18
Many parents are excited to see their teens reach legal adulthood. Perhaps your young adult is about to head to college, enter military service, or start full-time work after graduating from high school. Although this is an exciting time, legal adulthood also carries numerous legal implications that can affect estate planning. For more information… Read More »
How to Preserve Florida’s Homestead Exemption With an Out-of-State Trust
Florida’s homestead exemption is one of the strongest in the nation, and it can form the foundation of many effective estate planning strategies. However, the presence of an out-of-state trust could negate these benefits, and this might be an issue if you have recently relocated to Florida. To learn more about this issue, consider… Read More »
Purchasing a House for Your Child Without Losing Control of the Investment
Housing unaffordability has made it extremely difficult for younger people (specifically zoomers and millennials) to purchase real estate. If you’re an older family member watching from the sidelines, it can be incredibly difficult to witness your child or grandchild struggle to save enough for a down payment. If you want to lend a helping… Read More »
How Do You Know if a Trustee Will Follow Your Instructions After You’re Gone?
Trusts are popular in Florida for various reasons, including probate avoidance and asset protection. But as the name implies, this estate planning strategy relies on a foundation of trust. How do you know whether your trustee will actually follow your instructions after you’re gone? Will they act in the best interests of your beneficiaries?… Read More »
Generation-Skipping Trusts vs. Dynasty Trusts in St. Petersburg
Generation-skipping trusts and dynasty trusts are two examples of estate planning strategies designed to provide financial support for your family well into the future. Although similar in many ways, these two types of trusts represent different philosophies toward generational planning. To determine which option makes sense for your family, consider speaking with an experienced… Read More »
How Florida’s Homestead Exemption May Restrict Your Estate Planning Options
Normally, a Florida resident is free to devise their property as they wish through their will or by creating a revocable trust. But there is an exception for married persons who own their primary residence. Such residences, known as “homesteads,” enjoy a special status under the Florida Constitution. Florida Law and Your Primary Residence… Read More »
What You Need to Know About Estate, Gift & Inheritance Taxes in Florida for 2026
A New Year often means changes to various federal and state tax laws. Yet for Florida residents thinking about their estate planning needs, particularly as it relates to potential estate taxes, 2026 should not represent a radical departure from 2025. Only a small handful of Florida estates need worry about such taxes. That said,… Read More »