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Question

Do I need an estate plan if my estate is below the federal exemption?

Answer

Yes, but estate planning addresses far more than federal estate taxes. Probate avoidance, incapacity planning, beneficiary coordination, state-level taxes, and asset protection are all important reasons to have a comprehensive estate plan regardless of your taxable estate size.

Related FAQs

What is a SLAT (spousal lifetime access trust)?

What is a GRAT (grantor retained annuity trust)?

What is a dynasty trust?
Estate Planning Tax Planning Asset Protection Trusts Long-Term Care Impact of New Laws Tax Basics Protecting Your Legacy Generational Wealth Year-Round Tax Planning FAQs
Last Updated June 29, 2026
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About Mercer Advisors

We exist so you don’t have to worry about money. For more than 40 years, we’ve taken the sophisticated, time-tested approach that many ultra-high net worth individuals use to help manage their financial lives and made it accessible to more families.

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