In October’s Illinois Bar Journal, Derek M. Johnson discusses the challenges a decedent’s estate may face if it owes federal income taxes, which may take priority over other claims and expenses, especially when the estate is insolvent. Understanding how and when to pay an estate’s taxes in relation to its other obligations is critical, Johnson advises. In his article, “Debts, Secret Tax Liens, and Other Estate Traps,” Johnson considers options and preventive measures when determining whether taxes are owed by decedents and their estates in probate.

Editor’s note: The online and PDF versions of Johnson’s article include an updated table listing the priority of claims by classification, according to Illinois Probate Act. The Act was amended shortly after the Illinois Bar Journal went to press.

Read more in the October issue of the Illinois Bar Journal.