Manulife Provides Advisor 529 Estate Tax Tool

September 22, 2003 (PLANSPONSOR.com) - Financial advisors handling the Manulife College Savings 529 plan can now use a new calculator to show investors the potential federal estate tax benefits they could enjoy by funding a college account.

According to a news release, the Estate Tax Calculator helps illustrate how investors can save on their federal estate tax through 529 plan investments. Clients can fund up to five years of gifts in the same year – $55,000 per beneficiary or $110,000 if a couple is filing jointly, the news release said.

The announcement said an illustrative gifting tree helps the advisor show how these assets will be distributed to each beneficiary while the account holder maintains control of the accounts. Financial consultants can also use the calculator to develop a personalized prospecting letter or proposal with a customized illustration for their clients.

The Estate Tax Calculator is available for registered users at www.manulifecollegesavings.com .

Other components of Manulife College Savings’ gifting campaign include mailers, prospecting cards, consultant-customizable advertisements, and an brochure that educates consultants about advanced gifting opportunities. In addition, Manulife College Savings’ gifting kit also includes a client gift card and coloring book calendar for future 529 plan beneficiaries.

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