Estate Planning with Fexingo: Wills, Trusts, and Passing Wealth to Future Generations

Lucas and Luna discuss why a properly filled-out beneficiary designation on your 401(k) and IRA can override your will entirely. They walk through the 2017 Supreme Court case Howell v. Howell, where a divorce decree said one thing but a beneficiary form said another, and the form won. They explain why beneficiary designations avoid probate, how to handle contingent beneficiaries, and what happens if you name a minor or have a per stirpes clause. Luna shares a stat: 78 percent of Americans have not reviewed their beneficiary designations in the last three years. Lucas offers a practical checklist for updating forms after major life events. The episode ends with a short, natural donation appeal tied to the value of keeping listeners informed about these often-overlooked details. #BeneficiaryDesignation #ProbateAvoidance #EstatePlanning #HowellVHowell #RetirementAccounts #FinancialLiteracy #EstateTax #PerStirpes #ContingentBeneficiary #WillVsBeneficiary #StretchIRA #SECUREAct #DivorceAndEstate #EstateAttorneys #FamilyWealth #Finance #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

Episode 59 of Estate Planning with Fexingo. Lucas and Luna unpack the Heirloom Trust — a specialized tool that lets families donate art, antiques, or collectibles to a trust while retaining lifetime use, removing the asset from their taxable estate. They walk through the mechanics: how a qualified appraisal sets the charitable deduction, how the trust must comply with IRS rules on access and disposition, and why this works best for items that won't be sold. A real-world example: a family's Picasso painting worth $12 million, placed in a Heirloom Trust, saves the estate roughly $4.8 million in taxes while keeping the artwork in the family's home for two generations. They also flag pitfalls — if the trust's beneficiary moves or the artwork gets sold, the tax benefits unravel. Perfect for high-net-worth families with significant personal property who want to preserve both legacy and liquidity. #HeirloomTrust #EstatePlanning #ArtAndCollectibles #EstateTax #CharitableDeduction #QualifiedAppraisal #IRS #FamilyLegacy #ArtWealth #Picasso #Liquidity #HighNetWorth #TrustLaw #PersonalProperty #TaxStrategy #Finance #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

Lucas and Luna explore the Net Gift Trust, an estate-planning strategy where the donee agrees to pay the gift tax in exchange for receiving highly appreciated assets. Using the example of a family-owned commercial real estate portfolio valued at $12 million with a cost basis of $3 million, they walk through how a net gift arrangement can reduce the donor's taxable estate by $9 million while the donee uses a loan against the property to cover the tax bill. They discuss the IRS's key ruling on net gifts, the importance of a qualified appraisal, and why this strategy works best when the donee has liquidity or access to credit. The episode also covers the risk of the donee defaulting on the tax payment and how a carefully drafted net gift agreement allocates liability. No prior episodes have covered this specific technique, making it a fresh addition to the show's trust-focused library. #NetGiftTrust #EstatePlanning #GiftTax #AppreciatedAssets #IRS #Trusts #TaxStrategy #WealthTransfer #FamilyBusiness #RealEstate #QualifiedAppraisal #GenerationSkipping #Liquidity #Finance #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #Episode58 #LucasAndLuna Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

In this episode of Estate Planning with Fexingo, Lucas and Luna explore the life estate — a legal tool that lets a homeowner give their house to a child or heir while keeping the right to live there until death. They walk through a concrete example: a widowed mother in Florida transfers her $500,000 home to her son via a life estate, avoiding probate but creating a capital gains tax trap when the son sells after her death. The hosts explain the 'step-up'in basis' rule, the risks of Medicaid recovery, and why a life estate is a simple, low-cost alternative to more complex trusts. Perfect for listeners considering how to balance keeping a home in the family with protecting assets from nursing home costs or property taxes. No legacy planning jargon or fluff — just straight talk on when a life estate makes sense and when it doesn't. #LifeEstate #EstatePlanning #ProbateAvoidance #StepUpInBasis #CapitalGains #MedicaidRecovery #FloridaEstatePlanning #HomeTransfer #SurvivingSpouse #GiftTaxExclusion #EstateTax #RealEstateLegacy #Finance #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #EstatePlanningWithFexingo #WillsAndTrusts #GenerationalWealth Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

In episode 56 of Estate Planning with Fexingo, Lucas and Luna explore the Total Return Trust (TRT) — a modern estate planning tool that replaces the traditional trust's duty to produce income with a flexible approach focused on total investment return. Using a real case of a $3 million trust for a widowed beneficiary, they explain how the TRT allows trustees to invest for growth without worrying about current income, using a unitrust payout (e.g., 4% of trust assets annually) to provide cash flow. They compare TRTs to GRATs and CRTs covered in prior episodes, and discuss how the Uniform Principal and Income Act (UPIA) and state laws like Delaware's support this structure. The conversation also touches on the 2026 estate tax exemption sunset and why TRTs are increasingly popular for affluent families aiming to preserve purchasing power across generations. No legal advice — just a clear, practical breakdown of a powerful but lesser-known trust strategy. #TotalReturnTrust #EstatePlanning #TrustLaw #Unitrust #UniformPrincipalAndIncomeAct #DelawareTrustLaw #EstateTaxExemption #PortfolioGrowth #FiduciaryDuty #Beneficiary #WealthTransfer #Finance #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #EstatePlanningWithFexingo #InvestmentStrategy #Trustee #GRAT Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

Episode 55 of Estate Planning with Fexingo dives into the difference between per stirpes and per capita beneficiary designations. Lucas and Luna walk through a real-world example: a family with three adult children, one of whom predeceases leaving two grandchildren. They explain why a per stirpes designation ensures assets flow to the deceased child's descendants, while per capita could accidentally disinherit them. The hosts also touch on common pitfalls, including outdated beneficiary forms at brokerages and retirement accounts, and why a simple will update can override an old designation in an insurance policy. They close with a practical checklist for listeners to review their own estate documents. #PerStirpes #PerCapita #BeneficiaryDesignations #EstatePlanning #WillsAndTrusts #Inheritance #LegacyPlanning #AssetDistribution #FamilyWealth #ProbateAvoidance #RetirementAccounts #LifeInsurance #EstateTax #Finance #PersonalFinance #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #EstatePlanningWithFexingo Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

In this episode, Lucas and Luna explain how a Credit Shelter Trust, also known as a bypass trust, helps married couples preserve their federal estate tax exemption. They walk through a specific case: a Connecticut couple with a $13 million estate, showing how without the trust, the surviving spouse could lose the first spouse's exemption, resulting in a tax bill of roughly $1.5 million. They detail how the trust works, the trade-offs around control and income, and why it's especially relevant given the 2026 exemption is set to drop from $13.61 million per person to around $7 million. Listeners will learn concrete steps to discuss with an estate attorney. #CreditShelterTrust #BypassTrust #EstateTax #FederalEstateTaxExemption #MarriedCouples #Portability #TaxPlanning #EstatePlanning #WealthTransfer #Connecticut #EstateTaxExemption2026 #Sunset #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #Finance #LucasAndLuna #EstatePlanningWithFexingo #TrustPlanning Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

Episode 53 of Estate Planning with Fexingo. Lucas and Luna break down the Charitable Remainder Unitrust with a FLIP provision — a way to donate appreciated assets, claim a charitable deduction, and receive variable income until a triggering event, at which point the trust converts to a fixed-payout structure. They walk through a real scenario: a real estate investor contributing a $1.2 million rental property, the 10% remainder rule, and how the FLIP provision solved the problem of fluctuating rental income. They also discuss the IRS actuarial tables, the 50% adjusted gross income limit on deductions, and the trade-offs versus a standard Charitable Remainder Annuity Trust. No ads policy explained at buy me a coffee dot com slash fexingo. #CharitableRemainderUnitrust #FLIPUnitrust #CRUT #EstatePlanning #Finance #TaxStrategy #CharitableGiving #IRS #ActuarialTables #AppreciatedAssets #RealEstate #Retirement #IncomePlanning #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #EstatePlanningWithFexingo #WealthTransfer #Philanthropy Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

If you have a loved one with a disability, leaving them an inheritance outright could disqualify them from Medicaid and SSI. Lucas and Luna explain how a properly drafted third-party special needs trust lets you provide for their quality of life without jeopardizing essential government benefits. They walk through the rules—what counts as a qualifying distribution, who should serve as trustee, and why a first-party special needs trust works differently when the beneficiary funds it themselves, such as with a personal injury settlement. The episode closes with a real-world caution about using informal arrangements like a 'letter of intent' versus a formal trust. Listeners also hear why Fexingo keeps these episodes ad-free and how to support that decision at buy me a coffee dot com slash fexingo. #SpecialNeedsTrust #DisabilityPlanning #SupplementalSecurityIncome #MedicaidPlanning #EstatePlanning #TrustLaw #ThirdPartyTrust #FirstPartyTrust #PooledTrust #ABLENational #SSI #GovernmentBenefits #FiduciaryDuty #Trustee #InheritancePlanning #Finance #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

Episode 51 of Estate Planning with Fexingo tackles a less common but critical planning need: protecting a surviving spouse who is not a U.S. citizen. Lucas and Luna break down how a Qualified Domestic Trust (QDOT) allows a non-citizen spouse to defer the federal estate tax on assets inherited from a citizen spouse. Using the case of a Canadian-born spouse married to a U.S. citizen for 15 years, Lucas walks through a $6 million estate scenario where a QDOT would save roughly $2.4 million in immediate estate tax. He explains the mechanics — the trust must have at least one U.S. trustee, and distributions of income to the spouse are tax-free, while principal distributions trigger estate tax. The episode also covers the QDOT election deadline (filed with the deceased spouse's estate tax return within nine months of death), the risk of losing the election if missed, and the 35 percent estate tax rate on principal distributions to the surviving spouse. Luna questions whether the QDOT is a deferral or a permanent solution — Lucas clarifies it defers until the surviving spouse's death, when the remaining trust assets are taxed as part of their estate. Perfect for cross-border couples and advisors navigating the marital deduction for non-citizens. #QualifiedDomesticTrust #QDOT #EstatePlanning #NonCitizenSpouse #MaritalDeduction #EstateTax #CrossBorderPlanning #ImmigrationAndEstate #TrustLaw #IRS #TaxDeferral #UStatexecutor #SurvivingSpouse #LifeInsurance #Finance #WealthTransfer #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

In this episode of Estate Planning with Fexingo, Lucas and Luna explore the charitable remainder trust — a strategy that lets you turn highly appreciated assets into lifetime income while making a major gift to charity. They walk through a concrete example: a retiree with $500,000 in low-basis stock who wants to diversify without triggering a huge capital gains tax bill. The CRT sells the stock tax-free, pays the donor income for life, and leaves the remainder to a donor-advised fund. Lucas breaks down the numbers — how much income you might actually receive, what the charitable deduction looks like, and why this tool isn't just for the ultra-wealthy. They also compare it to a direct sale versus a gift of stock, and discuss when a CRT makes sense versus a simpler approach. No fluff, just real numbers and a clear explanation of how a charitable remainder trust works. #CharitableRemainderTrust #CRT #EstatePlanning #CharitableGiving #TaxStrategy #CapitalGains #DonorAdvisedFund #RetirementIncome #Philanthropy #WealthTransfer #Finance #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #EstatePlanningWithFexingo #LucasAndLuna #Trusts #LegacyPlanning #TaxEfficientInvesting Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

Episode 49 of Estate Planning with Fexingo dives into the nongrantor trust—a powerful tool that keeps inherited wealth separate from a child's marriage assets. Lucas and Luna unpack a real-world case: a couple with a $2 million estate who used a nongrantor trust to protect their son's inheritance from a future divorce settlement. They explain how the trust's separate tax ID shifts income tax liability to the trust itself, and why the grantor's retained control over distributions is key. Along the way, they compare this with grantor trusts and discuss the 2503(c) minor's trust for younger beneficiaries. By the end, you'll know the critical difference between grantor and nongrantor trusts—and when a family might choose one over the other. Perfect for listeners thinking about multigenerational wealth transfer without risking assets in a child's divorce or creditor claim. #NongrantorTrust #EstatePlanning #AssetProtection #InheritanceTrust #DivorceProtection #IrrevocableTrust #TaxPlanning #FamilyWealth #TrustLaw #Finance #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #WealthTransfer #GrantorTrust #IRS #Beneficiary #TrustTaxID #LegacyPlanning Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

Episode 48 of Estate Planning with Fexingo tackles the Miller Trust, a legally sanctioned workaround for seniors whose income exceeds Medicaid's strict limits. Lucas and Luna walk through how a qualified income trust—named after a 1990s court case—lets nursing home residents funnel excess Social Security and pension income into an irrevocable trust, making them eligible for long-term care coverage without draining their savings. They use a concrete example: a retired teacher in Florida with $3,800 per month in Social Security and a small pension, $1,200 over the income cap. The trust collects the surplus, pays for personal needs and medical bills, and the remaining balance goes to the state after death. The episode covers the trust's structure, state-specific rules, Medicaid's five-year lookback, and the hidden trap: if the trust isn't funded properly, the applicant can be denied coverage for months. Lucas and Luna also explain why a Miller Trust works only for income, not assets, and why some states require a separate funeral trust to exempt burial funds. This is a focused, practical episode for elder law planning. #Medicaid #MillerTrust #EstatePlanning #LongTermCare #NursingHome #ElderLaw #QualifiedIncomeTrust #SocialSecurity #PensionIncome #Florida #MedicaidPlanning #IrrevocableTrust #AssetProtection #SpousalImpoverishment #FuneralTrust #Finance #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

When you donate a valuable asset like artwork, a closely-held business interest, or real estate to charity, the IRS requires a qualified appraisal to substantiate the deduction. Get it wrong, and you face accuracy-related penalties that can wipe out the tax benefit. In this episode, Lucas and Luna walk through the specific rules: what makes an appraiser 'qualified,' the difference between a Form 8283 and a qualified appraisal summary, and the real-world case of a family who donated a collection of antique clocks valued at $1.2 million. They explain the three key triggers that raise IRS scrutiny: large dollar amounts, non-cash assets over $5,000, and gifts of property held less than one year. Listeners learn exactly which boxes to check and how a poorly documented appraisal turned a six-figure deduction into a seven-figure tax fight. #QualifiedAppraisal #IRS #EstatePlanning #CharitableGiving #Form8283 #AppraisalRules #NonCashDonations #ArtDonation #CloselyHeldBusiness #RealEstateGift #AccuracyPenalty #TaxDeduction #Finance #PersonalFinance #WealthTransfer #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #EstatePlanningWithFexingo Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

Lucas and Luna break down the Spousal Lifetime Access Trust, or SLAT—a strategy that lets couples move assets out of their estate while still accessing them if needed. They walk through a concrete case: a couple with a $15 million estate in 2026, facing a potential estate tax hit of over $4 million. Lucas explains how a SLAT uses the gift tax exemption to create an irrevocable trust for one spouse, with the other as a discretionary beneficiary, effectively freezing the taxable value while preserving financial flexibility. Luna probes the risks: divorce, the 'reciprocal trust' doctrine, and what happens if the beneficiary spouse dies first. They also tie the strategy to the current $13.61 million per-person exemption, which is set to sunset at the end of 2026. If you're a married couple with substantial assets, this episode gives you the specific framework to discuss with your estate attorney. #SpousalLifetimeAccessTrust #SLAT #EstatePlanning #EstateTax #GiftTaxExemption #TrustStrategy #IrrevocableTrust #WealthTransfer #MarriedCouples #LegacyPlanning #TaxSunset #Finance #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #EstatePlanningWithFexingo #LucasAndLuna #AssetProtection #WealthManagement Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

Episode 45 of Estate Planning with Fexingo dives into Qualified Opportunity Zone trusts. Lucas and Luna unpack how these trusts let investors defer capital gains by rolling them into designated low-income communities, with a concrete example of a real estate investor who rolled $2 million in gains into a Denver-area opportunity fund in 2024. They explain the 10-year holding period, the 10 percent basis step-up after year five, and the potential for tax-free appreciation. The conversation also covers the risks: the five-year sunset for 10-percent step-ups after 2026, the complexity of QOF certification, and why this strategy suits patient investors. A must-listen for anyone sitting on unrealized gains and wondering if an OZ trust fits their estate plan. #QualifiedOpportunityZone #CapitalGains #EstatePlanning #TaxDeferral #OpportunityFund #QOF #RealEstate #Investing #Finance #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #LucasAndLuna #TaxStrategy #WealthTransfer #TrustLaw #DenverRealEstate #PassiveInvesting #IRS Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

Episode 44 of Estate Planning with Fexingo dives into the Grantor Retained Annuity Trust (GRAT), a powerful estate-freeze tool that lets wealthy individuals pass future appreciation to heirs tax-free. Lucas and Luna break down the mechanics with a concrete example: a $5 million asset placed in a GRAT with a 3.6% IRS hurdle rate, assuming 8% annual growth. After two years, the grantor receives fixed annuity payments equal to the original $5 million, while the remaining $400,000 in growth passes to beneficiaries free of gift and estate tax. The hosts explain why GRATs are ideal for volatile assets like tech stocks or private business interests, discuss the risk of grantor death during the term, and compare the strategy to Spousal Lifetime Access Trusts and Dynasty Trusts. They also explore the 'zeroed-out GRAT' design, common pitfalls like incorrect valuation, and the current interest-rate environment as of June 2026. This episode is a must-listen for high-net-worth listeners exploring advanced estate planning techniques. #GrantorRetainedAnnuityTrust #GRAT #EstateFreeze #EstatePlanning #WealthTransfer #Finance #FamilyWealth #IrrevocableTrust #GiftTax #EstateTax #Section2702 #IRS #HighNetWorth #AssetProtection #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #LucasAndLuna #EstatePlanningWithFexingo Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

Episode 43 of Estate Planning with Fexingo dives into the Irrevocable Life Insurance Trust (ILIT). Lucas and Luna break down how separating life insurance from your taxable estate can save heirs hundreds of thousands in estate taxes. Using a concrete example—a $2 million policy owned by an ILIT versus personally—they show the mechanics: the trust buys the policy, pays premiums with Crummey gifts, and keeps death benefits estate-tax-free. They discuss the three-year look-back rule, the role of an independent trustee, and common pitfalls like the 'incidents of ownership' trap. No fluff, just the numbers and legal logic. Perfect for anyone with a life insurance policy who wants to maximize what passes to the next generation. #IrrevocableLifeInsuranceTrust #ILIT #EstateTax #LifeInsurance #CrummeyPower #TrustPlanning #WealthTransfer #EstatePlanning #Finance #PersonalFinance #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #TaxStrategy #LifeInsuranceTrust #EstateTaxExemption #Trustee #ThreeYearLookBack #IncidentsOfOwnership Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

In this episode, Lucas and Luna explore the dynasty trust, a powerful estate-planning tool designed to pass wealth across multiple generations while minimizing estate taxes. Using the case of the Walton family, they explain how a dynasty trust can shield assets from estate tax every generation, the role of state-level rules on perpetuities, and the practical considerations like trustee selection and distribution flexibility. Lucas breaks down the mechanics of how a dynasty trust works, including the generation-skipping transfer tax exemption and the impact of state trust laws. They discuss why this structure appeals to families with significant assets who want to create a lasting legacy, and contrast it with simpler trusts like revocable living trusts. The episode also covers the trade-offs, including loss of control and the need for professional management. A must-listen for anyone interested in multi-generational wealth planning. #DynastyTrust #EstatePlanning #GenerationalWealth #WealthTransfer #Finance #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #TrustPlanning #GSTExemption #EstateTax #WaltonFamily #LegacyPlanning #PerpetualTrust #TrustLaw #AssetProtection #WealthManagement #Trustee #InheritancePlanning Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

Lucas and Luna dig into the revocable living trust—often called the workhorse of estate planning. They explain how it differs from a will, why it keeps your estate private, and who actually needs one. Lucas shares a concrete example: a homeowner in Oregon who avoided 18 months of probate and $12,000 in legal fees by funding a trust. They cover the mechanics of funding, the myth that a trust replaces a will, and the simple cost-benefit math for middle-class families. If you own a home or have minor children, this episode gives you the one-piece-of-paper test to decide whether a revocable trust is worth the upfront hassle. #RevocableLivingTrust #EstatePlanning #Probate #TrustFunding #WillVsTrust #Inheritance #FamilyWealth #Finance #Business #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #EstatePlanningWithFexingo #LucasAndLuna #TrustLaw #AssetProtection #OregonProbate #LivingTrust #EstateTax Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

Episode 40 of Estate Planning with Fexingo: Lucas and Luna break down the Crummey trust—an estate planning tool that turns annual gift tax exclusion gifts into permanent family wealth. They walk through the 1968 Crummey v. Commissioner case that made it all possible, explain the 'Crummey power' withdrawal right, and discuss why this trust is a workhorse for high-net-worth families looking to transfer wealth without burning their lifetime exemption. Specific numbers: the $18,000 per-donee annual exclusion for 2026, and how a family of five could move $90,000 out of their estate each year. Lucas also flags the common mistake—failing to actually notify beneficiaries of their withdrawal rights, which can blow the tax benefit. Practical, specific, and rooted in real IRS rules. #CrummeyTrust #AnnualGiftTaxExclusion #EstatePlanning #GiftTax #IrrevocableTrust #CrummeyPower #WealthTransfer #LifetimeExemption #IRS #TaxStrategy #FamilyWealth #Finance #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #LucasAndLuna #EstatePlanningWithFexingo #GenerationSkippingTrust #GiftingStrategy Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

In this episode of Estate Planning with Fexingo, Lucas and Luna dive into the Medicaid Asset Protection Trust, a powerful tool for safeguarding your home from nursing home and long-term care costs. They walk through how the trust works, the five-year lookback rule, and a real-world example: a retired couple in Ohio who placed their $400,000 home into an MAPT five years before needing Medicaid. Lucas explains the difference between irrevocable and revocable trusts, why the grantor must give up control, and how the trust can bypass estate recovery. Luna asks about downsides—loss of step-up in basis, mortgage complications, and the risk of a home sale triggering capital gains. They also discuss alternatives like long-term care insurance and the 'spend down' strategy. By the end, listeners understand exactly when an MAPT makes sense and when it doesn't. This is episode 39 of Estate Planning with Fexingo: Wills, Trusts, and Passing Wealth to Future Generations. #MedicaidAssetProtectionTrust #MAPT #EstatePlanning #LongTermCare #NursingHomeCosts #IrrevocableTrust #AssetProtection #MedicaidPlanning #FiveYearLookback #EstateRecovery #HomeProtection #RetirementPlanning #ElderLaw #TrustsAndEstates #Finance #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #ElderCare Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

In episode 38, Lucas and Luna explore the Qualified Personal Residence Trust (QPRT), a powerful estate planning strategy that lets homeowners transfer a primary or secondary residence to heirs at a deep discount on the gift tax. They walk through a concrete example: a $2 million home placed in a QPRT with a 10-year retained term, a Section 7520 rate of 5.2 percent, and a resulting taxable gift of roughly $1.19 million — saving $324,000 in potential gift taxes versus an outright transfer. The hosts explain how the trust works, what happens if you outlive or die during the term, and the key trade-offs like losing the stepped-up basis. They also discuss why recent high Section 7520 rates make QPRTs especially attractive right now. No prior episode covered this specific trust structure. #QPRT #QualifiedPersonalResidenceTrust #EstatePlanning #GiftTax #RealEstate #Trusts #WealthTransfer #TaxStrategy #Section7520 #SteppedUpBasis #Finance #EstateTax #IrrevocableTrust #Housing #FamilyWealth #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #EstatePlanningWithFexingo Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

Episode 37 of Estate Planning with Fexingo explores the Spousal IRA, a powerful but underused tool that allows a working spouse to contribute to an IRA in the name of a non-working spouse. Lucas and Luna break down the 2026 contribution limits ($7,000 for those under 50, $8,000 for 50+), the key rule that the couple's combined earned income must equal or exceed the total contributions, and the five-year holding period for Roth IRAs. They use a real-world example: a couple where one spouse earns $120,000 as a marketing director and the other is a stay-at-home parent aged 42. By maxing out a spousal Roth IRA each year, that non-working spouse could accumulate over $500,000 by retirement, assuming a 7% annual return. The episode also clarifies that Spousal IRAs aren't a separate account type—just a contribution strategy—and warns against common mistakes like failing to designate beneficiary correctly or forgetting the pro-rata rule for conversions. Perfect for listeners who want to ensure both partners have retirement assets regardless of employment status. #SpousalIRA #RothIRA #IRA #RetirementPlanning #NonWorkingSpouse #StayAtHomeParent #EstatePlanning #WealthTransfer #Finance #PersonalFinance #RetirementSavings #TaxAdvantaged #Fidelity #Vanguard #Schwab #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #EstatePlanningWithFexingo Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

Episode 36 of Estate Planning with Fexingo dives into the Qualified Terminable Interest Property trust, or QTIP. Lucas and Luna walk through a real-world scenario: a $12 million estate where the first spouse wants to ensure the surviving spouse receives income for life, but the remainder ultimately passes to children from a prior marriage. They explain how a QTIP defers estate tax until the second death, qualifies for the marital deduction, and prevents the surviving spouse from redirecting assets away from intended heirs. The hosts compare QTIPs to a simple bypass trust, quantifying the potential tax savings. They also discuss the trade-off: loss of control for the surviving spouse. No prior episode has covered this specific trust, making it a fresh angle for listeners exploring blended family estate planning. #QTIP #QualifiedTerminableInterestProperty #EstatePlanning #MaritalDeduction #BlendedFamilies #Trusts #SpousalProtection #EstateTax #WealthTransfer #Inheritance #Finance #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #LucasAndLuna #EstateTaxDeferral #SecondMarriage #FinancialPlanning #LegacyPlanning Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

Episode 35 of Estate Planning with Fexingo explores standby trusts—a flexible estate planning tool that can act as a retirement safety net. Lucas and Luna break down how a standby trust works, when to fund it, and why it's an alternative to a standby irrevocable trust for asset protection. They walk through a real-world scenario: a 55-year-old professional funding a trust to shield assets while maintaining access if needed. The hosts also discuss the role of a standby trust in avoiding probate and how it differs from a traditional revocable living trust. If you're looking for estate planning strategies that combine asset protection with retirement income flexibility, this episode offers practical insights. #StandbyTrust #RetirementSafetyNet #EstatePlanning #Finance #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #AssetProtection #ProbateAvoidance #IrrevocableTrust #RevocableTrust #RetirementPlanning #TrustFunding #EstateTax #GenerationalWealth #WealthTransfer #FinancialPlanning #Podcast #LucasAndLuna Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

Lucas and Luna break down the spousal bypass trust, also known as a credit shelter trust — a powerful estate-planning tool that lets married couples double their estate-tax exemption. They walk through a concrete example: a couple with a $15 million estate in 2026. Without a bypass trust, the surviving spouse could lose half the exemption. With one, they shelter $13.61 million from estate taxes entirely. Lucas explains how the trust works, the role of the lifetime exemption (currently $13.61 million per person), and why the portability election isn't always enough — especially in states with their own estate tax like Massachusetts or Oregon. Luna brings up the key gotcha: if you move your assets into a bypass trust at the wrong time, you lose the step-up in cost basis. They also discuss who should and shouldn't use one, and how the 2026 sunset of the Trump-era exemption could make bypass trusts relevant again for smaller estates. #SpousalBypassTrust #CreditShelterTrust #EstatePlanning #EstateTax #MarriedCouples #LifetimeExemption #Portability #StepUpInBasis #TrustLaw #WealthTransfer #Finance #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #EstateTaxExemption #StateEstateTax #IrrevocableTrust #TaxPlanning #GenerationalWealth Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

Lucas and Luna tackle the most underused tax break in estate planning: portability. When one spouse dies, the surviving spouse can inherit their unused federal estate tax exemption — current exemptions total roughly $27 million per couple. Yet over 40% of married couples never file the simple IRS Form 706 to elect portability. Lucas walks through the math: if your spouse dies with a $13.5 million exemption, you can add theirs to your own, shielding $27 million from estate tax. But wait — portability only applies to the estate tax exemption, not to generation-skipping transfer tax exemptions, which are also lost if not used. A real case: a Florida couple with $18 million in assets lost $6 million in potential exemption because they missed the nine-month filing deadline. Luna pushes back: what about state estate taxes? Many states don't recognize portability, so a move from New York to Florida could save millions. They also discuss how portability interacts with credit shelter trusts, and why the SECURE Act's 10-year rule for inherited IRAs makes trust planning trickier. #Portability #EstateTaxExemption #IRSForm706 #EstatePlanning #MarriedCouples #TaxSavings #GenerationalWealth #SpousalExemption #CreditShelterTrust #SECUREAct #InheritedIRA #StateEstateTax #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #Finance #WealthTransfer #TaxStrategy #LucasAndLuna Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

In this episode, Lucas and Luna dive into the Spousal IRA—a powerful but often overlooked tool that allows a non-working spouse to build retirement savings. They walk through the mechanics: how a working spouse can contribute to an IRA in their partner's name, the income limits for 2025, and why this matters for stay-at-home parents or part-time workers. Using a concrete example of a family with one high earner and one spouse who stepped out of the workforce, they show how even modest contributions can compound into six figures over time. They also discuss the difference between traditional and Roth Spousal IRAs, the phase-out ranges for deductions, and common mistakes like missing the deadline or forgetting to file jointly. This episode is perfect for couples looking to maximize retirement savings and ensure both partners have financial independence in their golden years. #SpousalIRA #RetirementPlanning #NonWorkingSpouse #IRA #RothIRA #TraditionalIRA #TaxPlanning #CompoundInterest #StayAtHomeParent #FinancialIndependence #RetirementSavings #MarriageFinance #WealthBuilding #Finance #Investing #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #EstatePlanning Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

Lucas and Luna explore the Intentionally Defective Grantor Trust (IDGT), a sophisticated estate planning tool that lets high-net-worth individuals freeze the value of their estate for tax purposes while paying no capital gains tax on asset appreciation. They walk through a real case study: a real estate developer in Austin who transferred $5 million in rental properties into an IDGT in 2023, saving an estimated $2 million in estate taxes while continuing to pay the trust's income tax himself. The episode covers how the 'defect' in the trust actually works in the grantor's favor, the IRS's economic-benefit doctrine, and why this strategy is especially powerful with today's low interest rates (the IRS's Applicable Federal Rate is just 3.2% as of June 2026). Listeners learn the difference between an IDGT and a GRAT, and why the IDGT is preferred for long-term appreciation assets like real estate and private equity. No prior episode has covered IDGTs. #IntentionallyDefectiveGrantorTrust #IDGT #EstateFreeze #GrantorTrust #EstatePlanning #WealthTransfer #RealEstateDeveloper #Austin #ApplicableFederalRate #InterestRates2026 #CapitalGainsTax #EstateTax #GRAT #PrivateEquity #Finance #EstatePlanningWithFexingo #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

In this episode of Estate Planning with Fexingo, Lucas and Luna explore the Spousal IRA—a powerful but underused estate planning and retirement tool. They anchor the discussion to the 2025 contribution limit of $7,500 per year, explaining how a non-working or lower-earning spouse can build their own retirement savings using the working spouse's income. The hosts walk through real-world eligibility rules, the difference between traditional and Roth spousal IRAs, and how this strategy complements broader estate planning goals like dynasty trusts and asset protection. Lucas shares a concrete example of a couple in their 30s maximizing contributions over two decades to create over $500,000 in tax-advantaged savings. They also touch on the SECURE Act 2.0 changes effective 2025 that allow surviving spouses to treat inherited IRAs as their own. The episode closes with a forward-looking question about whether lawmakers should raise catch-up contribution limits for spousal IRAs. Perfect for listeners who want to ensure their non-working spouse isn't left behind in retirement planning. #SpousalIRA #RetirementPlanning #EstatePlanning #Finance #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #WealthManagement #RetirementSavings #IRA #SECUREAct2 #CatchUpContributions #TaxPlanning #SpousalRetirement #LucasAndLuna #Fexingo #PodcastEpisode #EstatePlanningWithFexingo #RetirementGap Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

This episode of Estate Planning with Fexingo explains how a Spousal Lifetime Access Trust (SLAT) can lock in today's low interest rates for decades. Lucas and Luna walk through a concrete example: a couple transferring $5 million into a SLAT when the applicable federal rate is just 2.4 percent. They show how the trust can leverage that low rate to minimize gift taxes, provide income to the non-grantor spouse, and shelter future growth from estate taxes. The hosts also cover risks like divorce, the grantor's death, and the 'reciprocal trust' trap. Perfect for listeners who already understand basic trusts and want a deeper strategy for rate-sensitive planning. #SpousalLifetimeAccessTrust #SLAT #EstatePlanning #ApplicableFederalRate #GiftTax #TrustPlanning #WealthTransfer #EstateTax #LowInterestRates #Finance #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #LucasAndLuna #CFR #GrantorTrust #Portability #SweatEquity #ExemptionSunset Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

Episode 28 of Estate Planning with Fexingo dives into the self-settled asset protection trust (SAP Trust) — a powerful but often misunderstood tool for high-earning professionals. Lucas and Luna explain how a surgeon in Texas used a Nevada SAP Trust to shield $2 million in personal assets from a malpractice judgment, while still retaining access to the trust income. They break down the three key requirements: irrevocability, independent trustee, and spendthrift clause. They also compare the 19 states that currently allow domestic self-settled trusts, with a focus on Delaware, Nevada, and South Dakota. The episode explores why SAP trusts don't protect against future creditors (only pre-existing ones) and how they differ from traditional domestic asset protection trusts. Listeners learn the practical steps — from choosing the right jurisdiction to funding strategies — and the hidden tax traps, including grantor trust rules and the five-year look-back period under bankruptcy law. #SelfSettledTrust #AssetProtection #EstatePlanning #MalpracticeProtection #HighNetWorth #TrustLaw #NevadaTrusts #DelawareTrusts #SouthDakotaTrusts #IrrevocableTrust #SpendthriftClause #DomesticAssetProtectionTrust #DAPT #SAPTrust #Finance #Business #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

Lucas and Luna explore how spousal IRAs allow non-working or lower-earning spouses to build retirement savings in their own name, leveraging the working spouse's income. They walk through the contribution limits, income thresholds, and the key difference between traditional and Roth spousal IRAs. The hosts also discuss how this strategy fits into broader estate planning by ensuring both spouses have independent assets, which can simplify inheritance and reduce tax burdens. Specific examples include a scenario where one spouse stays home to care for children and another where one spouse works part-time. Lucas breaks down the 2025 contribution limits and the phase-out ranges for Roth eligibility, emphasizing the retirement benefits even if one spouse has no earned income. #SpousalIRA #RetirementPlanning #EstatePlanning #Finance #RothIRA #TraditionalIRA #MarriedCouples #RetirementSavings #FinancialPlanning #TaxStrategy #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #WealthManagement #IRAContributions #StayAtHomeSpouse #IncomeLimits #RetirementSecurity #CatchUpContributions Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

Lucas and Luna explore the charitable remainder trust (CRT) — a powerful estate planning tool that lets you donate appreciated assets, avoid capital gains tax, and receive a steady income stream. Using a concrete example of a donor with $500,000 in Apple stock, they walk through how a CRT works, the two main types (CRAT vs. CRUT), and why it's particularly attractive in mid-2026 with the S&P 500 near all-time highs. They also discuss the charitable deduction rules, the 10% minimum remainder requirement, and common pitfalls. Perfect for listeners who want to combine philanthropy with smart tax and income planning. #CharitableRemainderTrust #CRT #CRAT #CRUT #EstatePlanning #CapitalGains #TaxStrategy #Philanthropy #Finance #WealthTransfer #AppleStock #S&P500 #IncomeStream #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #PersonalFinance #DonorAdvisedFund #NonProfit Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

Lucas and Luna explain how a Spousal Lifetime Access Trust (SLAT) works as an estate planning tool for couples with assets over $5 million. They walk through a case study of a tech executive in 2026, showing how a SLAT can freeze estate tax liability while preserving spousal access to the gifted assets. The hosts discuss the key features: grantor trust status, Crummey withdrawal powers, and the risk of 'reciprocal trust' doctrine. They also compare SLATs to traditional credit shelter trusts and clarify why the 2026 estate tax exemption cliff makes this a timely topic. The episode includes specific numbers: $13.61 million exemption per person in 2026, potential drop to $7 million in 2027, and how a SLAT can lock in the higher exemption today. The conversation stays grounded in real-world application, avoiding theoretical fluff. #SpousalLifetimeAccessTrust #SLAT #EstatePlanning #TrustLaw #WealthTransfer #EstateTax #GrantorTrust #CrummeyPower #ReciprocalTrust #TaxExemption #2026EstateTax #Finance #EstatePlanningWithFexingo #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #LucasAndLuna #TrustPlanning #AssetProtection Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

In this episode of Estate Planning with Fexingo, Lucas and Luna dive into the Grantor Retained Income Trust (GRIT), a powerful but lesser-known strategy for transferring wealth while retaining income. They walk through a concrete example: a 65-year-old founder with $5 million in closely held stock who wants to pass appreciation to heirs without triggering gift tax. Lucas explains how the GRIT works—transferring assets into an irrevocable trust while retaining annual income for a set term—and why it's particularly useful in today's low interest rate environment, referring to the IRS Section 7520 rate at 3.2%. They compare it to similar tools like the Grantor Retained Annuity Trust (GRAT) and Qualified Personal Residence Trust (QPRT), highlighting where GRITs still have advantages despite tax law changes. The episode also covers risks: if the grantor dies during the term, the full asset value comes back into the estate. Luna questions the practical feasibility for business owners, and they discuss valuation discounts and family dynamics. This is a focused, numbers-driven conversation that leaves listeners with one concrete takeaway: a GRIT can freeze the taxable value of an appreciating asset at today's rate, making it a smart bet for high-net-worth families with patience. #GrantorRetainedIncomeTrust #GRIT #EstatePlanning #Finance #WealthTransfer #IRS7520 #LowInterestRateStrategy #AssetFreeze #BusinessOwnerPlanning #TrustAndEstate #TaxPlanning #GiftTax #ValuationDiscount #FamilyWealth #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #PersonalFinance #EstateTax Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

Episode 23 of Estate Planning with Fexingo tackles the Spousal IRA — a largely overlooked retirement strategy for couples where one spouse does not have earned income. Lucas walks through the specific IRS rules: a working spouse can contribute to a separate IRA in the non-working spouse's name, up to the full annual limit, as long as combined earned income covers both contributions. The episode anchors on a concrete scenario: a couple where one spouse earns $120,000 and the other stays home. Lucas explains how this can build tax-deferred wealth, then shifts to how the Spousal IRA fits into a broader estate plan, including beneficiary designations and trust planning. Luna adds a caution about income limits for Roth contributions. Tune in to learn why this move can add hundreds of thousands of dollars to a family's retirement nest egg and why it belongs in your estate conversation. #SpousalIRA #RetirementPlanning #EstatePlanning #WillsAndTrusts #IRA #RothIRA #NonWorkingSpouse #TaxDeferredGrowth #BeneficiaryDesignation #TrustPlanning #WealthTransfer #Finance #PersonalFinance #RetirementSavings #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #LucasAndLuna #EstatePlanningWithFexingo Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

In Episode 22 of Estate Planning with Fexingo, Lucas and Luna dive deep into the Irrevocable Life Insurance Trust (ILIT) — a powerful estate planning tool that removes life insurance proceeds from your taxable estate. Using a concrete example of a $2 million policy, they walk through how the trust owns the policy, pays premiums via Crummey powers, and distributes tax-free cash to beneficiaries. The hosts explore the three-year look-back rule for transfers, the role of the trustee in premium notices, and a cautionary tale about an unfunded ILIT that lapsed. If you have a life insurance policy or are considering one for estate planning, this episode provides a clear, actionable blueprint for keeping death benefits out of the IRS's reach. Plus, the hosts explain why a properly structured ILIT can fund estate taxes or provide liquidity without triggering probate. #EstatePlanning #ILIT #IrrevocableLifeInsuranceTrust #LifeInsurance #EstateTax #Trust #CrummeyPower #Beneficiary #TaxFree #Probate #WealthTransfer #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #Finance #PersonalFinance #EstatePlanningTips #Trustee #LifeSettlement Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

Episode 21 of Estate Planning with Fexingo dives into the dynasty trust—a powerful tool designed to pass wealth across multiple generations while minimizing estate taxes and protecting assets from creditors. Lucas and Luna explore how the trust works, the rule against perpetuities and its repeal in many states, and a concrete example: a $5 million trust established in 2025 that could grow to $50 million over 50 years, tax-free. They also discuss trade-offs like the generation-skipping transfer tax, the importance of choosing the right jurisdiction (e.g., Delaware, South Dakota, Alaska), and why a dynasty trust isn't for everyone—but for families with long-term vision, it's the ultimate legacy vehicle. No fluff, just practical insights for listeners thinking beyond their own lifetime. #DynastyTrust #GenerationalWealth #EstatePlanning #TrustLaw #WealthTransfer #Finance #PersonalFinance #Inheritance #AssetProtection #GSTTax #RuleAgainstPerpetuities #SouthDakotaTrust #DelawareTrust #AlaskaTrust #EstateTax #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #LegacyPlanning Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

Hosts Lucas and Luna explore the silo trust, an estate-planning tool that isolates assets for each beneficiary, shielding them from divorces, lawsuits, and poor financial decisions. They break down a real-world example: a $10 million estate divided into five separate trusts, one per child, with spendthrift provisions preventing creditors from accessing the funds. Lucas explains how silo trusts differ from traditional shared trusts, why they prevent the 'bad apple' problem where one heir's debts drag down siblings' inheritances, and how they can be designed to give trustees limited distribution authority. The episode also covers common pitfalls, like improper funding or choosing the wrong trustee, and why silo trusts are increasingly popular among high-net-worth families with blended structures or entrepreneurial heirs. A must-listen for anyone concerned about protecting generational wealth from personal liability. #EstatePlanning #SiloTrust #AssetProtection #DivorceProtection #FamilyWealth #TrustLaw #BeneficiaryProtection #SpendthriftTrust #CreditorProtection #WealthTransfer #InheritancePlanning #Trustee #IrrevocableTrust #BusinessEntrepreneurs #Finance #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #EstatePlanningWithFexingo Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

Lucas and Luna explore how no-contest clauses in wills and trusts can reduce family disputes over inheritances. They dissect a 2023 Florida case where a disinherited heir challenged a will containing an in terrorem clause and lost her bequest of $200,000. They explain the legal mechanics of in terrorem clauses, state variations, and strategic considerations for estate planners. Lucas provides data: approximately 60% of estate disputes involve family members, and no-contest clauses reduce litigation by an estimated 40% in applicable states. They discuss how to draft a clause that holds up in court, including the need for a plausible gift and clear language. The episode also covers exceptions for good-faith challenges regarding undue influence or lack of capacity. The hosts tie the discussion to broader estate planning goals of preserving family harmony and wealth transfer efficiency. #EstatePlanning #NoContestClause #InTerroremClause #WillContest #ProbateLitigation #EstateDispute #FloridaLaw #TrustDrafting #InheritanceDispute #FamilyHarmony #WealthTransfer #LegalStrategy #EstateAttorney #WillDrafting #TrustLaw #Finance #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

Episode 18 of Estate Planning with Fexingo dives into the Grantor Retained Annuity Trust (GRAT), a powerful estate-planning tool that lets you transfer appreciation on assets to heirs with minimal gift tax. Hosts Lucas and Luna walk through how a GRAT works, using the example of a $10 million stock portfolio expected to grow at 8 percent annually. They explain the 'zeroed-out' GRAT strategy popularized by tax attorneys and used by billionaires like the late Sheldon Adelson to pass wealth tax-free to children. The episode covers the annuity payment structure, the IRS Section 7520 rate (currently around 4.6 percent as of May 2026), and the risk that the grantor dies during the trust term, causing inclusion back in the estate. Lucas and Luna also compare GRATs to other freeze techniques like installment sales to intentionally defective grantor trusts. If you've accumulated assets you expect to appreciate and want to lock in today's value for estate-tax purposes, this episode explains why a GRAT might be your best option. No fluff, just the mechanics and trade-offs you need to know. #GrantorRetainedAnnuityTrust #GRAT #EstatePlanning #EstateTax #WealthTransfer #TaxStrategy #IRS7520Rate #SheldonAdelson #AssetAppreciation #TrustPlanning #Finance #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #EstateFreeze #AnnuityPayment #GiftTax #IntentionallyDefectiveGrantorTrust #LucasAndLuna Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

In Episode 17, Lucas and Luna dive into the Domestic Asset Protection Trust (DAPT), a powerful but misunderstood estate planning tool. They explain how a DAPT allows you to be both the grantor and a beneficiary while shielding assets from future creditors, using the real-world example of a Delaware-based trust for a tech founder. The hosts clarify the key differences from offshore trusts, discuss state-specific laws (including the 20-state trend), and why you need a lawyer who understands asset protection trusts. Perfect for professionals and business owners worried about lawsuits or divorce. #DomesticAssetProtectionTrust #DAPT #AssetProtection #EstatePlanning #TrustLaw #WealthProtection #SelfSettledTrust #Creditors #DelawareTrust #NevadaTrust #SouthDakotaTrust #AlaskaTrust #Finance #Business #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #LucasAndLuna #EstatePlanningWithFexingo Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

Lucas and Luna explore the Qualified Personal Residence Trust (QPRT), an estate planning strategy that lets you transfer your home to heirs at a deep tax discount while retaining the right to live in it for a set number of years. They walk through a concrete example: a $2 million primary residence transferred via a 10-year QPRT, freezing the taxable value at today's lower price. When the term expires, any appreciation above the original value passes to the beneficiaries tax-free. The hosts discuss the risks: what happens if you die before the term ends, how the grantor's retained interest affects Medicaid and capital gains, and why this tool works best for homes expected to appreciate significantly. They also compare QPRTs to GRATs and highlight the importance of using an independent trustee. Perfect for homeowners with $1 million+ properties who want to reduce estate tax exposure while staying in their home. Episode 16 of Estate Planning with Fexingo. #QualifiedPersonalResidenceTrust #QPRT #EstatePlanning #TrustStrategy #HomeTransfer #TaxSavings #EstateTax #GRAT #ResidenceTrust #WealthTransfer #Heirs #RealEstatePlanning #Finance #Business #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #LucasAndLuna #EstatePlanningWithFexingo Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

In this episode, Lucas and Luna explore the often-overlooked durable power of attorney for finances—a document that lets someone manage your money if you become incapacitated. They discuss a real case from the 2023 California wildfires where a family lost control of a $2.4 million property portfolio because the sole trustee was hospitalized without a POA. The hosts break down why a DPOA is different from a springing power of attorney, the risk of a 'springing' trigger during a crisis, and how to set up a durable POA that names a successor agent. They also touch on the intersection of estate planning and long-term care insurance. No ads—if you find this valuable, support at buy me a coffee dot com slash fexingo. #DurablePowerOfAttorney #EstatePlanning #Incapacity #FinancialPOA #TrustsAndEstates #AssetProtection #ElderLaw #LongTermCare #CaliforniaWildfires #PowerOfAttorney #FamilyWealth #WealthTransfer #Finance #BusinessPodcast #FexingoBusiness #EstatePlanningWithFexingo #LegalDocuments #PlanningAhead Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

Episode 14 of Estate Planning with Fexingo: Lucas and Luna dive into the family limited liability company (LLC) as an estate-planning tool. They explain how transferring business or investment assets into a family LLC can protect heirs from creditors, lawsuits, and divorce settlements. Using the real-world example of the Pritzkers, who avoided billions in estate tax with family entities, they break down the mechanics: how the LLC centralizes control while gifting non-voting membership interests to reduce taxable value. They also cover the risks—IRS scrutiny under Chapter 14, the need for proper valuation discounts, and the trap of not treating the LLC as a real business. Lucas contrasts it with trusts, showing when an LLC beats a trust for asset protection. Specific numbers: the Pritzker estate valued at $15 billion, a typical 30% discount for lack of marketability, and the 2036(a) rule that can collapse the strategy if the grantor retains too much control. Listeners learn one concrete move: if you own a family business or rental real estate, a family LLC could shield that wealth for the next generation. #FamilyLLC #AssetProtection #EstatePlanning #WealthTransfer #FamilyLimitedLiabilityCompany #Pritzker #EstateTax #ValuationDiscount #GenerationSkipping #TrustVsLLC #Finance #Business #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #Podcast #LucasAndLuna #Heirs #CreditorProtection Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

In this episode of Estate Planning with Fexingo, Lucas and Luna break down the Qualified Terminable Interest Property trust, or QTIP trust. Using a concrete example of a $15 million estate in a second marriage, they explain how a QTIP lets the surviving spouse receive income for life while the principal ultimately goes to children from the first marriage. Lucas walks through the IRS requirements, the trade-off between control and estate tax deferral, and a real case where a QTIP saved over $3 million in taxes. Luna challenges him on whether the restrictions are worth it, especially in lower-wealth scenarios. They also touch on the 'QTIP election' deadline and how this trust interacts with portability. If you've ever wondered how blended families protect both a spouse and children, this episode gives you the mechanics without the jargon. #QTIPTrust #EstatePlanning #BlendedFamilies #TrustLaw #Inheritance #IRS #EstateTax #SpousalTrust #TerminableInterest #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #Finance #WealthTransfer #SecondMarriage #TrustPlanning #TaxStrategy #Probate #Beneficiary Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

Episode 12 of Estate Planning with Fexingo dives into the Crummey power, a legal mechanism that allows you to gift up to $19,000 per beneficiary per year into an irrevocable trust without triggering gift taxes. Lucas and Luna explain the 1968 IRS case that created this strategy, how the 30-day withdrawal right works, and why annual Crummey notices are critical. They also discuss common pitfalls like the five-and-five power limitation and the need for a trust protector. This episode is packed with practical insights for anyone using life insurance trusts or annual exclusion gifting. #CrummeyPower #CrummeyTrust #AnnualExclusion #GiftTax #IrrevocableTrust #ILIT #LifeInsuranceTrust #EstatePlanning #WealthTransfer #IRS #TaxStrategy #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #Finance #TrustPlanning #GiftingStrategy #TrustProtector #EstateTax Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

Episode 11 of Estate Planning with Fexingo explores irrevocable life insurance trusts (ILITs). Lucas and Luna break down how an ILIT removes death benefits from your taxable estate, prevents estate tax on the payout, and keeps proceeds controlled by a trustee — not directly by beneficiaries. They walk through a concrete example: a $2 million policy inside an ILIT saves over $800,000 in federal estate tax versus owning the policy personally. The hosts also discuss the 'three-year rule' that traps people who transfer an existing policy into a trust, and the Crummey power notice that makes annual gifts to the trust qualify for the gift tax annual exclusion. A practical, numbers-driven episode for anyone with a life insurance policy who wants to keep more of the benefit in the family. #IrrevocableLifeInsuranceTrust #ILIT #LifeInsurance #EstatePlanning #EstateTax #Trust #CrummeyPower #ThreeYearRule #GiftTax #AnnualExclusion #DeathBenefit #WealthTransfer #TaxPlanning #Finance #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #Podcast #EstatePlanningWithFexingo Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo