As many readers are aware the IRS is going to hold a hearing on February 16, 2007 on the October ruling that put a freeze on the creation and sale of private annuity trusts.

Today's Wall Street Journal has a brief synopsis online. You may access it by clicking here.

They point out that the IRS ended the tax benefits of private annuity trusts when concerns over the misuse and aggressive marketing tactics brought to light many abuses in their use and marketing over the last few years. If, after the February hearing the IRS affirms it's decision to end this particular vehicle I expect the surge in interest in structured sales and secured installment sales to continue, with both the Allstate and Prudential structured sale products benefiting the most.