To GRAT or not to GRAT, that is the question when it comes to tax-free gifting of appreciated stocks in a down market.

To GRAT or not to GRAT, that is the question when it comes to tax-free gifting of appreciated stocks in a down market.

THE NEED FOR A SUCCESSION PLAN: Whether large or small, whether organized as sole proprietorships, partnerships, limited liability companies or corporations, all businesses need to address succession.

People have long used Irrevocable Life Insurance Trusts (so-called "Crummey" Trusts), UTMA and UGMA accounts and direct paid State and Federal Tuition programs to help prepare for and pay for educational expenses and as a way to transfer wealth to the next generation. The Economic Growth and Tax Relief Reconciliation Act of 2001 (EGTRAA) greatly enhances the use of Section 529 plans and Coverdale Education Savings Accounts (ESAs) as additional strategies to consider in this same vein.

An overview published in the December 2002 issue of Investment News about the history and formation of the National Network of Estate Planning Attorneys.