Elevated Estate Planning, P.S. | August 4, 2025 | Estate Planning
How a Washington Credit Shelter Trust Can Affect Your Future Estate Tax Liability
Note: For deaths in 2026, the Washington State Department of Revenue sets the estate tax filing threshold and exclusion amount at $3,076,000 per individual. This exemption, which applies to both residents and non-residents with WA property, is not portable between spouses and does not include an automatic 6 million combined exemption. If you are married and own substantial real…
Elevated Estate Planning, P.S. | July 24, 2025 | Estate Planning
Explore the Costs of Estate Planning in Washington State
When considering one’s future, estate planning is a crucial aspect that ensures your assets, properties, and, most importantly, your loved ones are well-cared for when you’re no longer there. Today, we delve into the cost of estate planning in Washington state , offering a comprehensive guide to help you prepare for this essential step and…
Elevated Estate Planning, P.S. | July 10, 2025 | Estate Planning
Is it Wise to Do Your Own “DIY Living Trust”?
In the internet age, doing things yourself, or the “DIY approach,” has become more popular. There’s no denying the appeal: it’s often cheaper, convenient, and can provide a sense of satisfaction. However, it’s crucial to understand the potential risks involved when it comes to significant financial and legal matters such as a DIY Living Trust….
Elevated Estate Planning, P.S. | July 2, 2025 | Probate Avoidance
Frequently Asked Questions About Payable on Death Bank Accounts in Washington
One way to keep your checking, savings, or other bank accounts out of your future probate estate is to register them as “payable on death” (POD) accounts. A POD account is something you need to arrange with your bank or other financial institution where you have an account. While POD accounts are sometimes referred to…
Elevated Estate Planning, P.S. | June 30, 2025 | Estate Planning
Washington State Raises Estate Tax Threshold to $3 Million
Note: For deaths in 2026, the Washington State Department of Revenue sets the estate tax filing threshold and exclusion amount at $3,076,000 per individual. This exemption, which applies to both residents and non-residents with WA property, is not portable between spouses and does not include an automatic combined exemption of $6 million. This updated Washington estate tax exemption for…
Elevated Estate Planning, P.S. | June 26, 2025 | Wills
Types of Trusts Available in Washington State
Many people are familiar with the three major types of trusts in Washington State, but you should be aware that there are several more variants to choose from based on the circumstances. People understand the term “trust” from television portrayals of prosperity or have heard the phrase “trust fund children” in popular culture references. Tools…
Elevated Estate Planning, P.S. | June 18, 2025 | Estate Planning
The Complete Guide to Washington State Estate Planning
You may have heard the phrase, “Nothing is certain except death and taxes.” With that in mind, we should probably plan for both when it comes to estate planning in Washington State. Estate planning doesn’t have to be a boring topic, and much of it can be pretty interesting once you start understanding the benefits….
Elevated Estate Planning, P.S. | May 2, 2025 | Trusts
What is a Memorandum of Trust Used For?
One of the primary benefits of having a Revocable Living Trust is the privacy offered by this estate planning method. Unlike a Will, which becomes a matter of public record when it’s offered for probate, your Trust Agreement does not become public. So, your business remains your business. What happens, then, when you are attempting…
Elevated Estate Planning, P.S. | April 10, 2025 | Estate Tax Planning
What Is the Difference Between Estate, Inheritance, and Gift Taxes in Washington?
Note: For deaths in 2026, the Washington State Department of Revenue sets the estate tax filing threshold and exclusion amount at $3,076,000 per individual. This exemption, which applies to both residents and non-residents with WA property, is not portable between spouses and does not include an automatic, 6 million combined exemption. The estate tax is often misunderstood. Many Washington…
Elevated Estate Planning, P.S. | February 2, 2024 | Estate Planning
4 Things You Need to Know About Washington State Medicaid Planning for 2024
For many Washington residents aged 65 and older, the cost of receiving long-term nursing home or other institutional care is prohibitively expensive. Medicaid can provide benefits to cover these costs. But there are strict income limits and other eligibility requirements a senior must follow in order to qualify and remain eligible. Proper Medicaid planning can…