In This Issue

The newest versions of Cowles Trust Plus and Cowles TrusTerminator have just been released! Check out the newest features and content in version 19.0 of these products, as well as our new Will Estate Organizer Binder.

Is It Time Again To Start Using QPRTs?
QPRTs are one method of freezing property values for transfer tax purposes and keeping appreciation of the property from triggering estate taxes. In a world where economic recovery may mean rising property values, and where estate taxes are likely to rise at least partially toward former levels, a QPRT may be a good option for some clients.

Cowles Trust Plus Update Released
Cowles version 19.1 has been released, and is available as a download on Cowles Members Only. Here's a quick summary of what's in the newest update for Cowles Trust Plus.

Legislative Update
Notice of Federal Tax Lien Filed after Taxpayer's Death Ruled Valid by Tax Court; Tax Court Rules on Gift Tax Nature of Transfers to LLC and then from LLC to Trusts; Court Recognizes FLP Even Though Not Formally Funded before Decedent's Death, Rules Estate Entitled to Estate Tax Refund; Applicable Federal Rates for October 2009; Applicable Federal Rates for September 2009; Proposed Regulations Released on Disclosure of Generation-Skipping Transfers (GST) Under I.R.C. § 6011.

Cowles Tech Tip
Cowles software provides you tools to draft and create Qualified Personal Residence Trusts (QPRTs). This Cowles TechTip sets out the options you have when creating these trusts in Cowles Trust Plus.

THE ESTATE PLANNER AS A WORD DOCUMENT
Access The Estate Planner as a Microsoft Word document.