Now that the ink is starting to dry on the extension of the Bush Era tax cuts it is up to the rest of us to figure out what just happened, and what does it mean to our clients?  If you read the Rant two weeks ago you know my opinion - our clients are still facing a great deal of uncertainty, and this extension is essentially meaningless to anyone trying to plan for the long term.

That said, we can't simply fold up our tents and call it a day.  I pointed out that it is time for our clients to plan despite the uncertainty around estate taxation.  In order to do that, we need to be able to provide solid guidance.  Here are some key questions that we will answer in the coming weeks:

• Is there any benefit to individuals who don't happen to pass away in the next two years?
• What is the significance of the re-unification of the Gift and Estate Tax Exemptions?
• What happens to financial underwriting for estate planning at the carrier level?
• What happens to financial underwriting for estate planning at the reinsurer level?
• With the projected number of taxable estates now at approximately 3600, is estate planning essentially a dead end for the insurance professional?
• What should clients be doing now to position themselves for a future repeal or reduction of the $5 mil exemption?

Big questions, and the answers just may surprise you.

Those questions, however, can wait for another day.  It's the 23^rd of December, and this is the last Rant of the year.  I sincerely hope that you have found the Weekly Rant entertaining, informative and occasionally thought provoking.  I have had a great time writing it and your feedback has been a big part of that enjoyment.  I'll be back at it in January. 

Until then, happy holidays to you and your loved ones.  May you find yourself happy, healthy and energized for another year on January 3^rd.