The Supreme Court’s recent decision in Obergefell v. Hodges, means that state bans on same-sex marriage are unconstitutional. It also means that same-sex couples might want to update their estate, financial, tax, and retirement plans.
The recent decision will make it easier for same-sex couples to file their taxes jointly. In community property states, like Arizona, same-sex couples are now able receive the tax advantages associated with holding title as community property: this property is generally entitled to a fully stepped-up basis in the hands of a surviving spouse. Surviving spouses in same-sex marriages will now also be able to receive IRA funds as a direct rollover. Same-sex couples will also receive equal access to social security benefits and be able to transfer wealth to each other as spouses.
This historic decision will have a major impact on how same-sex couples plan their estates and their finances moving forward. The IRS, Social Security Administration, and Labor Department are expected to provide guidance as to the ramifications of the new ruling. If you are in a same-sex marriage, it is a good idea to sit down with an estate planning attorney to discuss the impact of the recent changes.
Contributed by Phoenix and Prescott Estate Planning Attorney, Andrea L. Claus.
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You have a number of options when it comes to estate planning, so why pick Morris Hall? First off, estate planning and asset protection are a very complicated endeavor and you should only trust someone who focuses exclusively on those matters. Also, Morris Hall is a proud member of The American Academy of Estate Planning Attorneys (AAEPA) which provides us additional support, advanced training, tools and information that is not available to others – which means that we can better protect your assets and your loved ones. We are one of only three firms in Arizona that belong to the AAEPA and are the only firm in that has been granted membership. If you have assets and loved ones that you want to protect, you are in good hands with Morris Hall. Contact us today at 888.222.1328 to schedule an appointment!
This blog should be used for informational purposes only. It does not create an attorney-client relationship with any reader and should not be construed as legal advice. If you need legal advice, please contact an attorney in your community who can assess the specifics of your situation.
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