Federal and Maryland Estate Tax Law Update
Esther A. Streete |
July 2025
The One Big Beautiful Bill Act permanently raises the federal estate, gift, and GST tax exemptions to $15 million starting in 2026, eliminating previous sunset provisions and maintaining the 40% tax rate. Maryland’s estate tax exemption remains $5 million, with portability and lifetime gifting continuing to offer valuable planning opportunities. It’s essential to review your estate plan to ensure it aligns with these significant changes.
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Problems with Police Response Time Reporting in Prince George’s County and its Impact on Adequate Public Facility Findings
Matthew C. Tedesco |
June 2025
Prince George's County ties housing development to police response times, but a recent Supreme Court ruling now requires any related fees to be clearly justified and proportionate, raising legal concerns.
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Proposed Changes to the Maryland Estate and Inheritance Tax Laws Were Not Enacted
Esther A. Streete |
May 2025
Governor Wes Moore's proposals to lower the Maryland estate tax exemption to $2,000,000 and eliminate the inheritance tax were rejected, keeping the exemption at $5,000,000 and the inheritance tax in effect for collateral heirs.
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Maryland's 2025 Legislators Pass Criminal, Civil Penalties & Regulations to Protect Furry (and Feathery) Friends (and Family)
Aiden A. Galloway |
April 2025
The 2025 Maryland legislative session introduced several new laws aimed at improving animal welfare, including enhanced penalties for animal cruelty and increased transparency in pet policies for landlords. Key measures include treating each harmed animal as a separate offense, mandatory disclosure of pet-related rules by landlords, and restrictions on the solitary confinement of roosters.
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Be Aware: Maryland Bankruptcy Court Rules That Lender Attorney Fees Related to Routine Notices in Chapter 13 Are Allowable
Kevin R. Feig |
March 2025
In a Maryland Chapter 13 bankruptcy case, In re Cruz, the debtor became concerned about nearly $3,000 in attorney fees accumulated due to mandated Payment Change Notices and Fee Notices related to her home equity line of credit. The Bankruptcy Court ultimately found the fees reasonable but excused the creditor from further notice requirements to prevent additional charges.
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The Future for Federal and Maryland Estate Tax Exemptions
Samantha A. Arnold |
February 2025
Starting January 1, 2025, the federal estate tax exemption will be $13,990,000 per person, but it may drop to about $7,500,000 in 2026 unless Congress intervenes. In Maryland, the estate tax exemption is currently $5,000,000 per person, with a proposal to reduce it to $2,000,000, leading to uncertainty about future changes.
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