Colorful speech bubbles in red, yellow, pink, and white containing question marks on a turquoise background

Upcoming Changes to Estate Tax Exemption for 2026

SimplyTrustSimplyTrust Editorial···2 min read

Learn how upcoming changes to the estate tax exemption could impact your planning and what steps you should take now.

Have you thought about how the upcoming 2026 estate tax exemption changes could impact your estate planning? With the IRS set to adjust the exemption amounts, now is the perfect time to reevaluate your estate strategy. The current exemption stands at $12.92 million per individual, but projections suggest it may drop to around $6 million in just a couple of years. This means that many families could find themselves facing unexpected tax implications.

Understanding how these changes will affect your inheritance plans can make a significant difference. For instance, if the exemption decreases as expected, individuals with estates exceeding the new limit may face higher taxes on their assets. This could impact decisions regarding trusts or gifting strategies. You might want to consider making larger gifts now to leverage the current exemption before it changes.

Additionally, if you have already set up a trust, it’s crucial to ensure that it aligns with your future plans. Trusts can provide a way to manage wealth transfer while minimizing tax burdens. However, as the laws change, the structures of existing trusts may require adjustments to maintain their effectiveness. Consulting with an estate planning professional can help ensure your documents are in order.

While the proposed tax law changes are still pending, staying informed is key. Keep an eye on the discussions surrounding the 2026 estate tax exemption, as this could directly affect your financial legacy. Preparing now could save your heirs from unnecessary tax headaches in the future. Revisit your estate plan and consider how these upcoming changes will impact your financial future and that of your loved ones.

In conclusion, don’t wait until the last minute! Being proactive about your estate planning can save you and your heirs significant stress and money. Reach out to a financial advisor or estate planning attorney to discuss your options and ensure you are prepared for these changes.

Read the original article →

Forms for Planning Your Estate

Free forms for planning your estate: a will, living trust, pour-over will, both powers of attorney, living will, and TOD deed.

Free

Last Will and Testament

Name your heirs, guardians, and final wishes. Free for every state.

Get Started
Free

Healthcare Power of Attorney

Name someone to make medical decisions if you can't.

Get Started
Free

Financial Power of Attorney

Name someone to manage your finances if you can't.

Get Started
Free

Transfer on Death Deed

Transfer real property to a beneficiary upon your death without probate. Available in 34 states and the District of Columbia.

Get Started
Free

Vehicle Transfer on Death

Name a beneficiary to inherit your vehicle at death without probate. Available in 26 states and the District of Columbia.

Get Started
Free

Living Will

State in advance which life-sustaining treatments you want or refuse, in the document your state recognizes, with signing instructions from the statute.

Get Started

All forms

Tools for Planning Your Estate

Free tools for planning your estate: what a will or trust costs, whether you need a trust or TOD deed, and how documents are signed.

What Does Estate Planning Actually Cost?

Compare costs across estate planning providers including online services and attorneys.

Compare Costs

How Much Life Insurance Do I Need?

Calculate your life insurance needs based on income, debts, and family situation.

Use Calculator

Are My Beneficiary Designations Protected?

Check how divorce, creditors, and state laws affect your beneficiary designations.

Check Now

How Much Does Probate Cost?

Estimate attorney fees, executor fees, court costs, and timeline for probating an estate.

Use Calculator

Who Inherits Without a Will?

Find out who inherits your estate and how much they get if you die without a will.

Use Calculator

How Much Does a Revocable Living Trust Cost?

Compare revocable living trust costs across providers including online services and attorneys.

Compare Costs

How Much Does a Will Cost?

Compare will costs across providers plus probate costs your heirs will pay.

Compare Costs

How Does SimplyTrust Compare to LegalZoom, Trust & Will, and Other Services?

Compare what it costs to make a trust official across SimplyTrust, LegalZoom, Trust & Will, Rocket Lawyer, and Quicken WillMaker.

Compare Services

All tools