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New year estate planning 2026

New Year, New Peace of Mind

New Year’s resolutions often focus on fitness or finances—but 2026 is the ideal time to finally create (or update) your will or trust. With major tax changes looming and 70% of Americans still without a plan, this year offers unique motivation.

At J. Davenport Legal, we’ve helped thousands turn “I’ll do it later” into “It’s done.” Why is 2026 perfect for your will or trust? Fresh start energy + upcoming shifts make action rewarding. This article explains why—and how to start simply. Ready for your legacy resolution? Read on.

Reason 1: The Tax Cut & Jobs Act (TCJA) Sunset – Estate Taxes Could Double

The 2025 federal exemption ($13.99M/person) halves to ~$7M in 2026. Many more families could owe 40% estate tax. A revocable trust + gifting now locks in higher exemptions. 2026 is your “last chance” window for maximum protection.

Reason 2: New Year Motivation Works

January searches for “estate planning” spike 300%. Families are together over holidays—perfect for legacy talks. Starting fresh feels good—70% who plan say “I wish I’d done it sooner.”

Reason 3: Life Changes Faster Than You Think

Marriage, grandkids, moves, health shifts—2026 brings new chapters. An outdated (or missing) plan risks probate (9–18 months, 4–7% fees). Reviewing now ensures your wishes match your life.

Reason 4: Simpler & More Affordable Than Ever

Fixed-price trusts start at $1,250 with $96/month financing. Online signing + nationwide service—no office visits needed. We include lifetime updates free.

Reason 5: Give Your Family the Gift of Certainty

No disputes, no court, no surprises—peace for you and them. 70% regret delaying; make 2026 different.

Why plan your estate in 2026

Your 2026 Estate Planning Kickstart

GoalEasy ActionBenefit
Create Will/TrustSchedule free consultAvoid probate & taxes
Update ExistingReview beneficiariesRight people inherit
Family TalkShare one wishPrevent fights
Fund TrustRetitle home/accounts100% protection

Common New Year Questions

How long? One call starts it.
Cost? Affordable + financing.

Make 2026 Your Legacy Year

2026 is perfect—new beginnings + real urgency. Don’t wait another year. Ready to finally get it done? Schedule a free consultation at https://iwantmyestateplan.com/free-call or take our estate planning quiz at https://iwantmyestateplan.com/quiz to see how your current plan stands up.

About the author

John F. Davenport, founder of J. Davenport Advisors/Davenport & Associates and J. Davenport Legal in Norwalk, CT, is a licensed attorney in New York and Connecticut. As an experienced estate planning attorney and financial advisor, he has spent more than 30 years guiding clients through revocable living trusts, asset protection planning, Medicaid strategies, and tax-efficient wealth transfer, while also providing investment advisory and retirement income planning services to help families secure both their lifetime needs and their legacy for their heirs.

References

  1. IRS, “2026 Exemption Update,” https://www.irs.gov/exemption-2026
  2. Forbes, “New Year Planning,” https://www.forbes.com/new-year-estate-2026