How can an estate plan be kept vital after death?

Description

Abstract: When a loved one passes away, one might think that the options for his or her estate plan have also been laid to rest. But that isn’t the case. There are postmortem tactics the deceased’s executor (or personal representative), spouse and beneficiaries can employ to help keep his or her estate plan on track. This article discusses qualified terminable interest property (QTIP) trusts; qualified disclaimers; exemption portability; the spouse’s right of election; special-use valuations; and alternate valuation dates.