Planning for the Surviving Spouse
Author: Klaralee R. Charlton
| CPE Credit: |
2 hours for CPAs
2 hours Federal Tax Related for EAs and OTRPs
2 hours Federal Tax Law for CTEC |
Per the IRS Education Provider Standards this course must be COMPLETED by 12/31/2028 to receive credits. NOTE: Go to My Professional Profile in your CCH CPELink account settings to ensure your name, and PTIN number; matches your PTIN card
Effective estate planning for a surviving spouse requires careful consideration of tax strategies, asset distribution, and long-term financial security. This course explores key estate planning techniques designed to protect and provide for the surviving spouse while minimizing estate and fiduciary income tax burdens.
Participants will gain a comprehensive understanding of estate tax mitigation strategies, including the Qualified Terminable Interest Property (QTIP) election and the Deceased Spousal Unused Exclusion (DSUE) election, as well as best practices for funding the marital share. Additionally, the course will cover fiduciary income tax mitigation strategies to optimize tax efficiency for the estate and beneficiaries.
Designed for estate planning professionals and tax practitioners, this course provides practical insights to ensure a seamless transfer of assets while preserving the surviving spouse’s financial well-being.
Publication Date: June 2025
Topics Covered
- Individual Income Tax Savings Ideas
- Basis Adjustment Opportunities
- Estate Tax Liability
- Lifetime Spousal Planning
- Unlimited Marital Deduction
- Marital Deduction & QTIP Transfers
- Benefits of Disclaimers
- Optimal Spending Allocations
- Fiduciary Tax & Accounting Considerations
Learning Objectives
- Identify estate planning techniques that maximize financial security and tax efficiency for the surviving spouse
- Explain the QTIP election and DSUE election, including their benefits, requirements, and impact on estate tax mitigation
- Identify various methods for funding the marital share, ensuring proper asset allocation and tax optimization
- Identify fiduciary income tax mitigation strategies to minimize the tax burden on the estate and surviving spouse
- Explain how estate plans can align client goals while ensuring compliance with estate and tax laws
Level
Intermediate
Instructional Method
Self-Study
NASBA Field of Study
Taxes (2 hours)
Program Prerequisites
Understanding of basic estate tax and estate planning concepts.
Advance Preparation
None
