Tax and Estate Planning

Athens Tax & Estate Planning Attorneys

When planning for the future and the future of your family and estate, drafting the proper estate documents can mean the difference between a sound future and unnecessary, incredibly high estate taxes. While only a small number of estates are subject to taxes, the estate tax rate in Georgia is very high. Furthermore, the chances that an estate or gift tax return will be audited by the IRS are very high.

At Blasingame, Burch, Garrard & Ashley, P.C., our Athens tax and estate planning attorneys can help you find confidence in knowing that your estate—and the future of your loved ones—is secure. We have 40 years of legal experience, and our access to valuable resources and our in-depth knowledge of Georgia’s various, complicated tax and estate planning laws gives us the unique ability to assist you throughout the entire process.

The Importance of Estate Tax Planning

Estate planning is crucial for everyone. Without a valid will, your assets will be distributed to your family members according to Georgia’s laws, which may not align with your personal wishes. Larger estates (under current law, those over $2 million in assets, including life insurance) may need to include estate tax planning in the will. Estate tax planning typically involves a proper division of assets among spouses, along with the establishment of a “credit shelter trust” upon the death of the first spouse.

Other estate tax planning mechanisms that may be used include:

• Insurance trusts
• Charitable remainder trusts
• Grantor retained annuity trusts
• Family limited partnerships
• Tax representation
• Not-For-Profit and Tax Exempt Entities

At Blasingame, Burch, Garrard & Ashley we are experienced in handling a wide range of estate planning issues, from simple wills to complex wills and trusts for estate tax planning. Our Athens tax and estate planning lawyers can answer your questions and address your concerns throughout the process.