A lot media attention has been paid to the drama and speculation surrounding Michael Jackson’s estate. After the dust began to settle, however,and the facts about Jackson’s estate emerged, it became apparent that he had, in fact, created a solid estate plan. Several lessons can be learned from Jackson’s estate planning.

The first critical thing that Michael Jackson did was draft a Last Will and Testament (a “Will”). Everyone, especially people with young children, as was the case with Jackson, should have a Will. Although a Will is a basic element of any estate plan, approximately two-thirds of Americans neglect this task.

Unexpected illness or injury can intrude upon an individual’s life at any time, preventing work and cutting off valuable sources of income. Social Security disability benefits are available to those unable to work due to illness or injury, but many who apply for benefits have their initial claim denied. There is a process for appeal of a denial of claim that can be taken advantage of, improving the chances of receiving important benefits.

According to Mr. Krooks, everyone should have basic estate planning elements in place, such as a Will and trust documents, all of which should be evaluated on a regular basis. Even as economic circumstances change, these documents remain valid. But, says Krooks, “valid” may not be optimal. Long-term planning must take into account both current circumstances and projected changes in personal finances and the overall economy.

In 2009, any assets below the amount of $3.5 million can be bequeathed to heirs with no federal estate tax penalty. However, assets left to one’s heirs over this estate tax exemption amount will be taxed. Barring any changes by Congress, in 2010 the estate tax will be repealed entirely. However, in 2011, it will be reinstated with an exemption of $1 million and a maximum unified rate of 50%.

A letter of intent is not a legal document, but it is still an important part of planning for the future of a child with special needs. A letter of intent contains important information about the child such as his or her history, likes, dislikes, current health and emotional status and hopes for the future.…

New York is one of the only three states that allow for the option of spousal refusal. Spousal refusal is an asset protection tool used wherein a spouse living the the community refuses turn over his or her assets or income to an ailing or incapacitated spouse for the purpose of seeking nursing home Medicaid…

When applying for Medicaid benefits, the look-back period for individuals seeking nursing home care is five years. The look-back period is the time period prior to the Medicaid filing Medicaid reviews to confirm the applicant’s financial eligibility. Any assets gifted to children or other individuals within 5 years of the need for nursing home care will cause a penalty period, or the amount of time the applicant must wait before qualifying for Medicaid benefits.

Obtaining life insurance is a necessary way to ensure that expenses are covered after the death of a loved one. This is certainly a benefit of any life insurance policy. Another benefit, not often considered, is the benefit to your estate plan.

The federal gift tax exemption is currently $1 million — meaning you can gift up to $1 million cumulatively over the course of your lifetime without incurring any gift tax. There is not marriage penalty; married couples can give up to $1 million per spouse. A gift made under $13,000 in 2009 will not count…

An estate plan should be reviewed regularly to make sure it still conforms to your wishes and current economic conditions. During a turbulent economy, such as the one we are experiencing now, it is particularly important to review your investment strategy. The direction you take your retirement saving plan will depend on your risk tolerance…