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Illinois

The Prairie State

Explore unique aspects of estate planning in Illinois, from probate processes to local laws, and how they impact your future planning.

Articles

Understanding Revocable Trusts in Illinois Versus Nevada
Estate Planning

Understanding Revocable Trusts in Illinois Versus Nevada

Explore the differences between revocable trusts in Illinois versus Nevada, including tax, privacy, and duration concerns.
SimplyTrustSimplyTrust EditorialOctober 17, 2025
Why There’s No Inheritance Tax in Illinois
Estate Planning

Why There’s No Inheritance Tax in Illinois

Learn why there’s no inheritance tax in Illinois and what that means in real life for the state’s residents and property owners.
SimplyTrustSimplyTrust EditorialOctober 16, 2025
Illinois Estate Tax: What It Is and How We Got Here
Estate Planning

Illinois Estate Tax: What It Is and How We Got Here

Read about the Illinois estate tax, its history, key rules for residents and property owners, and what it means in practice.
SimplyTrustSimplyTrust EditorialOctober 16, 2025

Latest News

Retire Tax-Free: States That Protect Your Retirement Income
News

Retire Tax-Free: States That Protect Your Retirement Income

Discover which states allow retirees to keep more of their income by exempting taxes on retirement income.
SimplyTrustSimplyTrust EditorialNovember 11, 2025
Expanded Estate Planning Services Now Available in Six States
News

Expanded Estate Planning Services Now Available in Six States

New estate planning services are launching across six states, making access easier for middle-class families.
SimplyTrustSimplyTrust EditorialSeptember 29, 2025
Understanding the OBBA: Boosting Estate Tax Breaks for the Wealthy
News

Understanding the OBBA: Boosting Estate Tax Breaks for the Wealthy

Uncover how the One Big Beautiful Act boosts estate tax breaks for the wealthy and why you should keep an eye on state laws.
SimplyTrustSimplyTrust EditorialJuly 20, 2025
Understanding the Implications of Oregon’s Proposed Estate Tax Elimination
News

Understanding the Implications of Oregon’s Proposed Estate Tax Elimination

A new ballot initiative in Oregon, if passed, could eliminate the state’s estate tax, potentially changing the estate planning landscape.
SimplyTrustSimplyTrust EditorialJuly 17, 2025

What makes estate planning in Illinois unique compared to other states?

Estate planning in Illinois stands out due to its specific probate processes and rules. For instance, Illinois has an independent administration process which allows for a simplified probate process that saves time and paperwork if heirs are in agreement. Additionally, Illinois follows the 'Illinois Prudent Investor Rule,' which provides guidelines for trustees on how to invest trust assets responsibly. These factors make understanding local nuances crucial when setting up a plan to ensure seamless asset distribution and compliance with state laws. This tailored approach can facilitate smoother transitions and minimize potential legal hurdles during estate settlement.