In 1789, Benjamin Franklin wrote, "... but in this world nothing can be said to be certain, except death and taxes."* Discover the truth behind Franklin’s famous words and learn about estate planning in "Death & Taxes," our first web series to strengthen your tax mind!
Episode 1: Who is Will?
Meet the Davenport family, and learn about the function of a last will and testament.
Episode 2: Avoid Probate!
Is a revocable trust the same thing as a living trust? The “Death & Taxes” saga continues as the Davenports learn about probate and planning with trusts.
Episode 3: Got Digital?
The Davenports discover the importance of planning for digital assets.
Episode 4: Estate Tax!
In the United States, we have a unified transfer tax system comprising three parts: the estate tax, gift tax and generation-skipping transfer tax. Watch the Davenport family learn about these three taxes that work in concert…
Episode 5: Marital Deduction
The marital deduction is the foundation of a typical estate tax plan. Find out what it is and how it works alongside the Davenports as the D&T saga continues!
Episode 6: QTIPs
The Davenports learn about qualified terminable interest property (QTIP) and what it takes for property qualify.
Episode 7: Bypass Trusts
The Davenports learn about a typical estate plan and a possible challenge with highly appreciated assets after 2017 tax reform.
Episode 8: Planning After TCJA
Find out what the Davenports can do after the increased lifetime exemption after the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act.
Episode 9: Defective Trusts
Damien calls Mr. Nimcrut's work intentionally defective in the latest installment of the Death & Taxes saga!
Episode 10: Wealth Planning Is Hard!
The saga concludes with a shocking twist as the Davenports learn the goal of estate planning and why it is challenging.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this web series is based on data available as of the date of its release and is not to be considered as tax, legal or financial advice. Applying specific information to your situation requires careful consideration of facts and circumstances and BKD is under no obligation to update this content if changes occur. Please consult your tax, legal or investment advisor before acting on any matters covered.
*Benjamin Franklin, in a letter to Jean-Baptiste Le Roy, 1789
Specialized Resources
Simply Tax Podcast
Simply Tax cuts through the static of the tax world and doesn’t waste your time by needlessly tossing around 10-dollar terms and citing code sections. Host Damien Martin has a knack for boiling down complex issues for business professionals who need a trusted advisor to help strengthen their tax mind.
BKD's Tax Reform Resource Center
BKD’s tax professionals will continually provide up-to-date information on industry-specific tax reform.
American Institute of CPAs (AICPA) Tax Reform Resource Center
The AICPA Tax Reform Resource Center provides comprehensive coverage on tax reform. Featuring a repository of news, resources, videos, podcasts, learning and AICPA advocacy positions.
Estate Planning
A well-crafted estate plan is made up of two interrelated parts—a plan for the passage of your assets and the documents that will put your plan into effect. BKD works with you and your legal counsel to develop a plan that considers the many aspects of your circumstances.
