In this video, Ellen breaks down what the upcoming estate tax changes mean for individuals and families, who really needs to take action, and how gift taxes and state estate taxes factor into your overall plan.
You’ll learn:
- Why the estate tax exemption keeps changing
- What the new 2026 exemption amounts will be
- Who really needs to take action (and who doesn’t)
- How lifetime gifts reduce your exemption
- Which states still impose their own estate tax
- Why most families won’t be affected but should still understand the rules
Ellen also explains why some ultra-high-net-worth families may want to explore estate tax reduction strategies - though for most people, this is more about education than urgent action.
While Cookman Law doesn’t provide this service, Ellen and her team can help you understand what these changes mean for your current plan and refer you to the right professionals if needed.
Schedule a consult:
Timestamps:
00:00 - Intro
00:25 - Why does the estate tax exemption change so often?
01:22 - A quick history of the estate tax exemption
04:23 - Do you need to take steps to protect your estate?
05:41 - How do these changes relate to the gift tax?
08:00 - How Cookman Law can help
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Please call or text with any Estate Planning questions: (650) 690-2571
The content of this YouTube channel is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute legal advice. You should not rely upon any information contained on this YouTube channel for legal advice. Viewing this YouTube channel is not intended to and shall not create an attorney-client relationship between you and Ellen Cookman or Cookman Law, PC. Messages or other forms of communication that you transmit to this YouTube channel will not create an attorney-client relationship and thus information contained in such communications may not be protected as privileged. Neither Ellen Cookman nor Cookman Law, PC makes any representation, warranty, or guarantee about the accuracy of the information contained in this YouTube channel or in links to other YouTube channels or websites. This YouTube channel is provided "as is," does not represent that any outcome or result from viewing of this channel. Your use viewing of this YouTube channel is at your own risk. You enjoy this YouTube channel and its contents only for personal, non-commercial purposes. Neither Ellen Cookman, Cookman Law, PC, nor anyone acting on their behalf, will be liable under any circumstances for damages of any kind.
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By: Ellen Cookman - Special Needs Trust Attorney
Title: Estate Tax Update: How It Affects Your Estate Plan
Sourced From: www.youtube.com/watch?v=jODJgDb2NNA
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