John Mateyko Estate Planning Trends in 2024


John Mateyko on Preparing Your Estate Plan for Upcoming Tax Changes

John Mateyko advises individuals to take a proactive approach to estate planning as potential tax law changes approach in the coming years. With current estate and gift tax exemptions set to decline in 2026, now may be a critical window for reviewing existing plans and considering strategic adjustments designed to protect long-term wealth.

What May Change in 2026

At present, the federal lifetime estate and gift tax exemption is $13.61 million. This elevated exemption is scheduled to sunset in 2026, reverting to a lower threshold that may be adjusted to approximately $7 million. Additional proposals have also suggested reducing the exemption to $3.5 million while increasing estate tax rates beyond the current 40%.

Under today’s rules, an estate valued at $10 million would not incur federal estate taxes. However, once exemption levels decrease, a portion of that same estate could become taxable, potentially creating a significant tax obligation for heirs. These projected changes make advance planning an essential part of effective wealth management.

Estate Planning Strategies Worth Reviewing

John Mateyko highlights several strategies that may help individuals take advantage of current exemption levels before they change:

  • Spousal Lifetime Access Trust (SLAT)
    A SLAT allows one spouse to transfer assets into an irrevocable trust for the benefit of the other spouse, removing future growth from the taxable estate. While the beneficiary spouse may access the trust assets, the donor spouse must rely on assets held outside the trust, making careful planning essential.

  • Credit Shelter Trust (CST)
    This trust enables a portion of one spouse’s estate to be preserved for beneficiaries while reducing estate taxes at the surviving spouse’s death. Although effective for estate tax planning, assets in a CST generally receive only one step-up in basis, which may result in higher capital gains taxes for beneficiaries.

  • Permanent Life Insurance
    Permanent life insurance can provide lifetime coverage along with accumulated cash value. When structured correctly, policy proceeds are typically excluded from estate taxes and can offer valuable liquidity to help cover estate tax liabilities or equalize inheritances.

Staying Aligned With Changing Laws

With legislative uncertainty ahead, John emphasizes the importance of reviewing estate plans on a regular basis. Ongoing updates help ensure strategies remain aligned with current regulations, personal financial goals, and family needs.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute tax or legal advice. Individuals should consult their professional advisors regarding their specific circumstances.

Location: Georgia, USA

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