<prompt> Human: Wifes parents have a successful business, probably profit 1-2m annually. Its growing some, but tied to an up-and-down market -- one up year, I know paid 1.8m in taxes. Excluding the business, I would guess they have a net worth of 5-10m. Theyre both relatively healthy and around 60. There are 8 children and have set up the estate to avoid conflict. Her Dad explained that: a if they get hit by a bus, they want the business to continue to run as they owe it to their employees and licensees b they intend on spending all their money, so not to expect anything almost certainly a lie c theyre setting up their estate to ensure that the 8 kids can pay estate tax to ensure the business continues to operate via an ILIT Right now, my wifethe kids get a crummey letter each year have been for 2 years that they sign and return. Its apparently whole life insurance with the max gift 14k.My wife and I are saving for our retirement, but it seems strange to not factor in a high likelihood of a chunk from her parents. General personalfinance questions: - The ILIT, can we bank on this? What could we forecast it for? Does something happen if they stop paying it? Is there anything we need to do to ensure we maximize this? - When planning for our retirement, is there a conservative amount that we shouldcould forecast? Ignoring it fully seems smart, but also might unnecessarily suppress our lifestyle in our 30s-40s, etc. - Is there any other relevant information I should get from her parents? - Should my wife and I discuss with someone for a better understanding financial planner, estate lawyer, etc? Thanks a ton in advance!  <response>: Its a personal opinion, but I dont think anyone should take inheritance into account when planning their financial future. Should a windfall occur, you change your plans at that point. For now you make your own plans and stick with them - sans inheritance. 