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The Estate Tax Exemption Is Now $15 Million in 2026: Does Your Estate Plan Still Make Sense?

On January 1, 2026, the federal estate tax exemption increased to $15 million per person — $30 million for married couples. It is now permanent, with no scheduled expiration. If you read that and thought, ‘that doesn’t affect me — my estate isn’t anywhere near $15 million,’ I want to stop you right there. Because… View Article

Social Security Full Retirement Age Just Changed in 2026: What It Means for You

In 2026, Social Security’s full retirement age officially reached 67 — completing a 42-year transition that began with a congressional reform in 1983. If you were born in 1960 or later, your full retirement age is now 67. That is the final number. It will not go up again under current law. This change affects… View Article

What Happens If I Die Without a Will in 2026? (Intestate Succession Explained)

One of the most common estate planning fears is: “What happens if I die without a will?” The answer is intestate succession — state laws decide who gets your assets, who raises your kids, and how everything is handled. In 2026, dying without a will (intestate) can create unnecessary delays, costs, and family stress —… View Article

Should I Pay Off My Mortgage Before I Retire in 2026? Pros, Cons & When It Makes Sense

One of the biggest questions people approaching retirement ask is: “Should I pay off my mortgage before I retire?” With interest rates still elevated in 2026 and many homeowners carrying 3–7% mortgages, the decision isn’t as simple as “debt = bad.” It depends on your cash flow, tax situation, investment returns, and what you want… View Article

Does a Will Override Beneficiary Designations on Accounts in 2026? (Simple Answer + What to Do)

One of the most common estate planning questions John F. Davenport hears from families in Norwalk, CT and nationwide is: “Does my will override the beneficiary I named on my bank account, IRA, or life insurance?” The short, clear answer in 2026 is no — beneficiary designations almost always win over your will. John F…. View Article

What Are Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) in 2026? Simple Rules & Strategies

Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) are the amounts the government says you must withdraw each year from traditional IRAs, 401(k)s, and similar accounts once you reach a certain age. In simple terms: Uncle Sam gave you a tax break when you saved — now they want their share back. As John F. Davenport, licensed attorney in… View Article