05/19/2026
Most people assume estate planning is something to handle later. The data says otherwise.
According to the Trust & Will 2026 Estate Planning Report, the largest study of its kind, surveying 5,000 U.S. adults, 56% of Americans have zero estate planning documents. And among high earners ($250K–$499K), 74% say estate planning is "very important," yet the majority still haven't acted.
Here's what changed in 2026 that makes this even more urgent:
✅ The federal estate tax exemption is now $15 million per individual (up from $13.99M in 2025), permanently set by the One Big Beautiful Bill Act
✅ The annual gift exclusion is $19,000 per recipient, $38,000 per couple, and resets every January 1
✅ Beneficiary designation on your IRAs, 401(k)s, and life insurance legally override your will, only 21% of families have reviewed theirs
If your estate plan hasn't been updated in the last year, it may not reflect the current rules, or your current wishes.
Our team at Global Wealth Management offers complimentary estate planning reviews for retirees and pre-retirees across South Florida. Call us at 954-533-7144 or visit https://hubs.ly/Q04h7MVJ0 to get started.
For informational purposes only. Not investment, tax, or legal advice. Global Wealth Management Investment Advisory, Inc. is an independent financial services firm.