The addition of a common-law partner as a joint owner of a bank account with a right of survivorship may give rise to initial uncertainty as to whether the arrangement constitutes a gift. While such a designation may appear to be a gratuitous transfer, the presumption of advancement does not apply to a common law spouse added onto a joint account, even if there is a right of survivorship. If….
You’ve already beaten the odds — now make sure your fortune doesn’t roll the dice without you. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of helping lottery winners turn sudden wealth into lasting legacies. Here are six key considerations to keep in mind from an estate planning perspective: Assemble a Strong Advisory Team Winning the lottery is thrilling — but it can also be overwhelming and cause immense anxiety…..
Winner/Gagnant!!!!! Six Estate Planning Considerations For Lottery Winners Continue Reading »
Charitable Giving, Estate Planning, Succession Planning, Trusts, Wills
Earlier this year, my colleague Justin de Vries blogged about the post-mortem release of dueling love letters from T.S. Eliot and his friend/inamorata Emily Hale. However, there is now a happier news story regarding the impact of Mr. Eliot from beyond the grave. The Bronte Parsonage, in England, is a museum of the family home of the Bronte sisters that usually attracts 70,000 visitors per year. Due to the restrictions….
Cats, the T.S. Eliot Estate and the Gift that May Save the Brontes’ House Continue Reading »
Charitable Giving, Estate Administration, Estate Donations, In the NewsThis Blog was written by: Alicia Godin, Estate and Trust Consultant, Scotiatrust “A jealous son sues his desirous and spoiled younger brother and his beleaguered and over-his-head uncle about the spoils of the estate of his late mother.” Working in the area of estate planning and estate administration offers a glimpse into the range of family dynamics and human behaviour. As an estate planner, much of my time spent with….
Chaos caused by Gifting Continue Reading »
Estate LitigationLife insurance is an effective way to make a significant future donation, but the unfortunate reality is that charitable policies have a high lapse rate. Thousands of policies have been donated since 1979 when the Canada Revenue Agency allowed premiums to be receipted. Sadly too few pay out to fund charitable programs. There are some practical reasons for the lapse rate. Charitable life insurance policies are sold in the moment,….
Life Insurance Gifts Restructured Continue Reading »
Estate Planning, Philanthropy/Charitable Giving