The federal estate law is in flux.  But with Congress seemingly unable to resolve the matter anytime soon, the current law repealing the estate tax for 2010 remains in effect.  Therefore, if someone dies this year, his or her family will likely owe zero federal estate tax.  What's more, the estate tax is scheduled to come roaring back in 2011, with a reduced equivalent exemption amount and a higher top tax rate.

If you been left in a quandary about estate planning, you're certainly not alone.  Nevertheless, there are several logical moves you could make in 2010.

The new health insurance legislation imposes significant new tax reporting requirements.  In essence, you will have to report most annual payments for goods and services exceeding $600.00 -- including payments to corporations -- on form 1099MISC.  At least this little-discussed provision doesn't kick in until 2012.  So you still have plenty of time to prepare for the onslaught of new paperwork.