Every week without a plan is a week your family is unprotected. New York law does not pause for good intentions — and neither do estate taxes, incapacity, or intestacy.
Why “Later” Is the Most Expensive Word in Estate Law
Dying without a will means New York’s intestacy rules under EPTL Article 4 decide who inherits — not you. Dying without a durable Power of Attorney (GOL §5-1513) or a Health Care Proxy (NY Public Health Law Art. 29-C) can force a costly court guardianship proceeding before anyone can act on your behalf.
What a Complete New York Estate Plan Requires — Right Now
| Document | What It Does | Key Law |
|---|---|---|
| Will | Controls distribution, names executor | EPTL §3-2.1 |
| Revocable or Irrevocable Trust | Avoids probate; irrevocable = tax & Medicaid planning | EPTL Article 7 |
| Durable Power of Attorney | Financial decisions if you are incapacitated | GOL §5-1513 |
| Health Care Proxy | Medical decisions; legally separate from financial POA | NY Pub. Health Law Art. 29-C |
The 2026 Estate Tax Cliff You Cannot Afford to Miss
New York’s 2026 basic exclusion is $7,350,000. Estates exceeding 105% of the exclusion ($7,717,500) fall off the cliff — losing the entire exemption and owing tax from dollar one at rates up to 16%. New York also adds back gifts made within 3 years of death to the taxable estate. Strategic trust planning — started today — is the only way to stay below the cliff. Learn more in our NY Estate Tax Guide and our NY Statewide Guide.
Serving All of New York — Book Your Appointment Today
Morgan Legal Group, led by attorney Russel Morgan, Esq., serves clients across New York City, Long Island, Westchester, the Hudson Valley, and Upstate New York. Whether your estate is straightforward or complex, the right time to plan is always now.
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