The Step-Up in Basis: How Estate Planning Can Optimize Tax Benefits
Most people don’t think about capital gains taxes when planning their estate. But there’s a simple rule that can make a big difference for your family: the step-up in basis. With the right planning, this tax rule can help your loved ones inherit property without getting stuck with a large tax bill...
The Importance of Healthcare Directives
When we talk about planning for the future, most people think of retirement accounts, home insurance, or even writing a will. But there’s one part of the plan many people overlook: what happens if you can’t speak for yourself during a medical emergency?
That’s not just a question for...
Asset Inventory Tips During Succession
Putting together an accurate inventory of assets can make a big difference during the succession process in Louisiana. When a loved one passes away, gathering information about what they owned—and what they owed—is one of the first steps in settling the estate. It doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right approach...
Gifting Strategies in Estate Planning to Reduce Taxes
Giving during your lifetime isn’t just thoughtful—it can also be a smart move for your estate plan. Certain types of gifts can reduce the size of your taxable estate and help your loved ones now rather than later. At Kallio Law Firm, LLC, we guide Louisiana families through practical, tax-friendly strategies...
Blended Families and Estate Planning: What You Should Know
Blended families often come with more moving parts—children from previous relationships, new spouses, and shared assets. That’s why estate planning matters even more when your family isn’t traditional. If you don’t have a clear plan, the law may decide who gets what, and the outcome may not reflect your wishes. Whether you’re...
How a Living Trust Works in Louisiana
A living trust can offer a thoughtful way to manage your property during your lifetime and plan for the future. Many people use trusts to provide structure, keep their affairs organized, and prepare for the possibility of incapacity. In Louisiana, living trusts can be a valuable part of your estate plan when...
What Is the Best Way to Pass My House to the Next Generation?
Owning a home is one of the most significant financial and personal investments many of us make. Deciding how to pass it down to children or grandchildren can bring up a mix of emotions—pride, responsibility, and sometimes uncertainty. Louisiana law provides several ways to transfer real estate, each with different benefits and...
The Risks of a DIY Estate Plan
Creating an estate plan is one of the most important steps to protect your family and assets. With the rise of online estate planning tools, it may be tempting to handle this process on your own. While these services claim to offer quick and affordable solutions, DIY estate plans often lead to...
Essential Documents You Should Include in Your Estate Plan
It’s important to have an estate plan so you can dictate what happens to your property after you die, provide financial support for your beneficiaries, designate someone to act on your behalf if you are ever incapacitated, and achieve other important objectives. Whether you are single and live on your own or...
The Importance of Keeping Your Estate Plan Updated
Creating a comprehensive estate plan is a critical step in protecting your family, protecting yourself during periods of incapacity and unavailability, preserving the value of your estate, and ensuring that your assets are passed along to your chosen heirs. However, the life stage in which you create your plan may not last...
