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Through 2048, an estimated $124 trillion in wealth is expected to pass from older to younger generations in the U.S. Additionally, $50 trillion will pass laterally to surviving spouses, the large majority of whom will be women, before making its way down to children. Known as the Great Wealth Transfer, it comes with responsibility for both the owners and inheritors of wealth. Here, five steps are outlined to help you and your family prepare for the change that also represents a shift in power with younger generations stepping into their financial strength.

Effectively transitioning a business to the next generation of owners through a business succession plan that incorporates estate tax planning will result in the most value being retained by the owners and their families. Whether the business is entirely family owned or has unrelated owners, each scenario comes with its own complications but with considerable overlap in planning opportunities.

For many art collectors, the allure of acquiring and displaying art often overshadows the effort required to manage it properly and plan for its eventual disposition. After all, upon death, you can’t take it with you. Estate planning for art collectors involves navigating a complex landscape of valuation, tax, and management issues. Without a strategic approach, the beauty hanging on your walls might be at risk of becoming entangled in tax and legal concerns. So, it’s time to master the art of estate planning so your collection remains a source of pride and prosperity for generations.

With the U.S. election results in 2024 setting the stage for significant changes in tax legislation, the administration is expected to prioritize extending the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 (TCJA) and potentially repealing parts of the Inflation Reduction Act, which may lead to adjustments in corporate taxes and individual tax provisions. As we navigate these changes, it is important for individuals and businesses to stay informed and proactive in their planning approach.

At some point on your family journey and through the key life stages, you may take a step back and realize the wealth and legacy you’ve created are going to live on for generations. As you begin to reflect, you can look to the legacy and estate planning guide in this Digest as a starting point. You’ll also find helpful checklists, thoughtful questions, and perspectives to prepare for the generational transition—including how to talk with your heirs about their inheritance.