Who are these resources for?

They are for readers planning ahead, reviewing documents or learning about estate and trust responsibilities. Start with the topic closest to your current question.

Can an article tell me exactly what to do with an asset?

Articles provide general context. Asset ownership, account rules, beneficiaries and your circumstances need individual review before you make a change.

What if I read something that affects my existing plan?

Note the article and your question, then gather the relevant documents. A review can help you understand whether your plan needs attention.

How can I learn more about the topics covered here?

Explore the practice-area pages, Elaine’s book and interview highlights, or request a consultation about your own planning questions.

Do articles replace a consultation?

Reading can help you prepare. A consultation provides an opportunity to discuss the facts and decisions specific to your situation.

GMB

Why a Tax Planning Attorney Should Be Part of Your Financial Team

If you’ve spent your life building wealth, the last thing you want is for a significant portion of your estate to be lost to taxes.

By Elaine Andrews, Certified Specialist October 28, 2026 2 min read

If you’ve spent your life building wealth, the last thing you want is for a significant portion of your estate to be lost to taxes. That’s where estate tax planning comes in.

At The Andrews Law Firm, P.C., we help clients develop personalized strategies that preserve their wealth and minimize the estate tax burden on their heirs.

What Is Estate Tax Planning?

Estate tax planning involves structuring your assets and estate in ways that reduce or eliminate estate taxes due upon your death. With proper planning, you can pass more of your legacy on to your loved ones and charitable causes.

Annual and lifetime gifting
Irrevocable life insurance trusts (ILITs)
Grantor retained annuity trusts (GRATs)
Charitable remainder trusts (CRTs)
Family limited partnerships

Understanding Federal and State Estate Taxes

As of 2024, the federal estate tax exemption is over $13 million per individual, but that amount is expected to decrease in the coming years unless Congress takes action.

Additionally, some states levy their own estate or inheritance taxes. Planning early can help ensure you’re not caught off guard.

Who Needs Estate Tax Planning?

Even if your estate doesn’t currently exceed the federal exemption, changes in law, real estate appreciation, or business growth could increase your tax exposure.

Estate tax planning is particularly important if you:

Own high-value real estate or investments
Have a closely held business
Plan to leave significant gifts to heirs
Expect to receive or pass on an inheritance

How an Attorney Helps

An experienced estate tax planning attorney ensures your plan is compliant, current, and effective. We tailor solutions to fit your goals, explain how laws affect your estate, and coordinate with financial professionals for a seamless strategy.

We also provide guidance on trust administration, probate avoidance, and business succession to support your broader estate plan.

Don’t Let Taxes Define Your Legacy

At The Andrews Law Firm, P.C., our goal is to help you leave a meaningful legacy—not a financial burden. If you’re concerned about estate taxes, we invite you to schedule a consultation today.

Let us help you build a plan that protects your wealth, honors your wishes, and supports your family’s future.

Elaine Andrews

Elaine Andrews is a State Bar of California Certified Specialist in Estate Planning, Trust and Probate Law, a California credentialed professional fiduciary and a retired Lieutenant Colonel of the U.S. Army Reserve JAG Corps. She began her estate planning practice in 1992 and practices from Truckee.

More about Elaine