Category Archives: Estate Planning
What Is the Total Amount of Taxes You Pay in Washington Before You Die?
Taxes have been a major part of human society since the earliest civilizations. No one really likes them, but most begrudgingly accept that they are necessary. Without taxes, it would be challenging to fund infrastructure projects, the military, and various social programs. But how much do you really pay over the course of your… Read More »
Recent Scam in Washington Highlights the Need for Proper Estate Planning
You’ve probably heard it a dozen times before: You should always try to avoid dying with a Will. When explaining why this is so important, estate planning lawyers in Spokane often mention the challenges of intestate succession and the expensive probate process. However, a recent case in Washington shows that dying without a Will… Read More »
Washington State Raises Estate Tax Threshold to $3 Million
By Matthew M. Luedke, Managing Attorney, Moulton Law Offices, P.S. Big news for Washington families: starting July 1, 2025, the Washington State estate tax exemption increases from $2.193 million to $3 million. This change, along with new tax rates and adjustments, marks one of the most important estate planning updates in years. At Moulton… Read More »
Top Mistakes With Durable Powers of Attorney in Washington
Durable powers of attorney are some of the most common estate planning tools in Washington. These documents can provide considerable protection and control when (or if) you become incapacitated. However, these estate planning tools are not foolproof – and they may be far less effective than you realize if you make certain mistakes. To… Read More »
Do Stay-at-Home Parents and Homemakers Need Estate Plans?
As a stay-at-home parent or homemaker, you might be wondering whether you truly need an estate plan. After all, your spouse might be the primary breadwinner – and you might trust them to handle financial matters. However, an estate plan could be more important than you realize – and you might want to discuss… Read More »
Should I Create a Spousal Lifetime Access Trust in Washington State?
If you’re considering estate planning strategies that involve gifts between spouses, you may have heard of a spousal lifetime access trust. Also known as a “SLAT,” this type of trust offers numerous potential advantages for married couples. But is it really the right estate planning strategy for you? Can an estate planning attorney in… Read More »
Should You Tell Your Family About a DNR in Washington State?
A “do not resuscitate” order (DNR) is a desirable choice for many Washington residents approaching the end of their lives. But while this might make total sense to you, your family may struggle to understand why you do not want to receive life-saving care. Should you tell your loved ones about your decision to… Read More »
Can a Trust Help Me Avoid Washington State and Federal Estate Taxes?
Unlike many other states, Washington joins 16 other states and imposes its own estate taxes. Combined with federal estate taxes, this could cause concern for many residents – especially those approaching retirement and their twilight years. You may have heard that a trust can help avoid these estate taxes – but is there any… Read More »
Testamentary Trusts vs. Revocable Living Trusts in Spokane
At first glance, testamentary trusts and revocable living trusts may seem quite similar. If you’re assessing your estate planning options in Spokane, however, it is important to understand the subtle differences between various trusts. These slight differences may be beneficial or detrimental, depending on your unique circumstances. What exactly is the difference between a… Read More »
Should You Take Out Life Insurance on an LLC Member?
If you own or co-own a Washington business, you might consider taking out a life insurance policy to protect that business in the event of your sudden death. For example, many Washington limited liability companies take out life insurance policies on their members. This can provide liquidity to buy out the member’s interest in… Read More »