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ESTATE PLANNING
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As we begin 2026 with fresh perspectives and renewed energy, now is the perfect time to commit to an important gift for yourself and your family: the peace of mind that comes with having your estate planning affairs in order.
For many families, estate planning sits perpetually on the“ someday” list— that collection of important tasks that we know we should handle but somehow never quite get around to completing. Make 2026 the year you finally take action.
Why January Is the Perfect Time to Act
The new year brings fresh motivation and a natural opportunity for renewal. After the holiday bustle settles, January and early February offer a quieter season to focus on important but often postponed priorities. Your calendar is open, your mind is clear, and you’ re already in the mindset of planning and organizing for the months ahead.
More importantly, taking care of your estate planning now— at the start of the year— means you can have confidence throughout the year that your affairs are in order, rather than spending another twelve months with this nagging item on your mental to-do list.
What Deserves Your Attention in 2026?
As you begin your estate planning review, pay particular attention to these key areas:
Foundation Documents – Your will and / or trust form the cornerstone of your estate plan. These should clearly articulate who receives your assets, who will manage your affairs, and who will care for minor children if applicable.
Incapacity Planning – Powers of attorney for finances and health care ensure someone you trust can make decisions if you’ re unable to do so. These documents are just as important as planning for after your death— perhaps more so.
Asset Alignment – Your estate plan is only as good as its implementation. Ensure assets are properly titled, beneficiary designations are current, and everything works together as intended.
Tax Efficiency – Recent changes in tax laws may affect your estate. What made sense five years ago might need adjusting in light of current regulations and exemption amounts.
Digital Legacy – From social media accounts to cryptocurrency, our digital footprint has expanded dramatically. Your plan should address how these assets are accessed and managed.
Business Succession – If you own a business, you need a clear plan for its continuity or transition, whether to family members, partners, or through a sale.
Red Flags That Demand Immediate Attention
Move estate planning to the very top of your 2026 priority list if any of these apply:
• You don’ t have any estate planning documents at all
• Your documents are more than five years old
• You’ ve experienced divorce, remarriage, or the death of a spouse
• You’ ve had children or grandchildren since your last update
• You’ ve moved to a different state
• Your named agents, executors, or guardians are no longer appropriate choices
• Your financial situation has changed significantly
• You own property in multiple states
• You have a blended family with complex dynamics
• Your health has changed, or you’ re approaching a major life transition like retirement
The Real Cost of Procrastination
We understand why estate planning often gets postponed. It requires confronting uncomfortable topics, finding time in busy schedules, and making complex decisions. However, the cost of continued inaction far exceeds the temporary discomfort of addressing these matters:
For Your Family: Without proper documents, your loved ones may face lengthy probate proceedings, family disputes over your wishes, court battles over guardianship or conservatorship, and the emotional burden of making difficult decisions without guidance.
For Your Estate: Failure to plan can result in unnecessary taxes and expenses, assets distributed contrary to your wishes, state law determining who inherits rather than your preferences, and potential loss of business value or family property.
Don’ t let this be another year where estate planning remains on your“ someday” list. Make 2026 the year you give yourself and your family the gift of preparation, protection, and peace of mind.
Ready to get started? Contact our office today at 724.942.6200 to schedule your 2026 estate planning consultation.
Christine Brown Murphy is a partner of Zacharia Brown & Bratkovich PC, an Estate Planning and Elder Law firm. The firm focuses its practice on estate planning including wills, powers of attorney, living wills, and trusts; estate administration; Medicaid eligibility, and Veterans benefits planning. Pittsburgh-area office locations include McMurray, Murrysville, and Cranberry. Contact information – Phone: 724.942.6200 Website: zacbrownlaw. com E-mail: christine @ zacbrownlaw. com
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