For families with generational wealth, estate planning conversations are essential but often delicate. With the 2026 estate tax exemption sunset on the horizon, addressing these key topics now is essential to preserving your family’s legacy. Finley Davis understands both the financial complexities and the psychology behind wealth transfer discussions, providing guidance to help your family make thoughtful decisions.
At Finley Davis, our approach is rooted in empathy and experience. We help families initiate these conversations with respect for each individual’s values and goals. By focusing on your family’s unique dynamics and aspirations, we help your estate plans become not only financially sound but aligned with your parents' intentions. Here’s a guide to help you start these conversations, with phrases to keep each topic approachable and supportive.
With the current estate tax exemption set to decrease from $12.92 million per individual to approximately $6 million in 2026, high-net-worth families face potentially higher tax burdens. This change means that without timely planning, a significant portion of wealth intended for heirs or charitable causes could be lost to taxes.
Suggested Phrase: “With the upcoming 2026 tax exemption change, I want to make sure that your legacy goes to the people and causes you care about most. Could we discuss ways to approach this together, so that your heirs and charitable goals receive the impact you intend?”
Working with Finley Davis ensures your family can proactively prepare for these changes. Our team brings a strategic, personalized approach to tax planning, helping minimize liabilities while maximizing the impact of your parents’ legacy.
Your parents’ estate plan should reflect not only their financial wishes but also their values. As an heir, focusing on their goals—beyond financial details—can make the conversation feel more meaningful and respectful.
Suggested Phrase: “I want to make sure that everything is in place to honor your wishes, exactly as you envision them. Could we talk about what’s most important to you regarding the legacy you want to leave?”
Finley Davis helps clients clarify and align their legacy goals with effective financial strategies, from wealth preservation to philanthropic planning. We work with families to bridge the financial and emotional components of legacy planning, creating strategies that resonate across generations.
For families with generational wealth, a family governance framework—such as family councils or meetings—can keep each generation aligned with shared goals. Governance structures can provide clear communication channels and ensure that family values guide financial decisions.
Suggested Phrase: “I’ve heard that families like ours sometimes establish family meetings or councils to help us all stay aligned on the big picture. Is this something you’d feel comfortable exploring, so we’re all clear on your wishes and the path forward?”
At Finley Davis, we specialize in family governance as a core part of wealth management. Our goal is to help families establish the communication and structure needed to preserve their wealth and values, so future generations can thrive with clarity and cohesion.
Conversations about healthcare directives, long-term care, or powers of attorney can be challenging but are vital to ensuring comfort and security. Addressing these areas with empathy acknowledges their importance while respecting your parents’ autonomy.
Suggested Phrase: “I know these topics can be tough to talk about, but I want to make sure we’re prepared to honor any wishes you have around healthcare or long-term care. Could we discuss what’s most important to you?”
With Finley Davis, families receive comprehensive support for sensitive topics, working with advisors who understand the emotional nuances of estate planning. We help translate your parents’ wishes into actionable plans, ensuring they feel supported at every step.
If charitable giving is a priority for your parents, discussing how to integrate their philanthropic intentions can ensure that their contributions have maximum impact. Planned giving not only reflects personal values but can also provide tax advantages that align with legacy goals.
Suggested Phrase: “I know that giving back is important to you, and I’d love to understand more about the causes you care most about. How would you like us to approach philanthropy as part of the family’s legacy?”
Finley Davis offers tailored philanthropic planning, helping families set up charitable trusts, foundations, or other structures that optimize the tax benefits of giving. We align their generosity with effective strategies that protect wealth while supporting the causes they value.
Estate planning involves intricate financial, legal, and emotional considerations. Working with experienced advisors—such as wealth managers, estate attorneys, and tax professionals—ensures that all aspects of the plan are aligned and in compliance with changing laws.
Suggested Phrase: “Estate planning can get complex, and I know it may help to have some guidance. Do you have professionals you trust, or would you be open to consulting a wealth manager or estate attorney together to help simplify the process?”
At Finley Davis, we take a holistic approach, coordinating with legal and tax experts to help your family’s estate plan meet your parents’ goals. Our team works closely with each family to make sure all aspects of the plan are aligned and prepared for future changes.
Estate plans should be flexible to adapt to changes in family dynamics, tax laws, or personal goals. Suggesting regular check-ins with your parents reinforces a commitment to honoring their evolving intentions.
Suggested Phrase: “Since life and family dynamics can shift, would it be helpful if we checked in periodically to make sure everything still aligns with what you want?”
Finley Davis offers ongoing support for estate planning, helping families regularly review and adapt their strategies to ensure alignment with long-term goals. We provide consistent guidance to help your family stay prepared for whatever the future brings.
Discussing estate planning with your parents goes beyond finances—it’s about respecting their wishes, preserving their legacy, and creating a lasting foundation for generational wealth. Finley Davis understands the complexities and emotions surrounding these conversations, providing a compassionate, knowledgeable approach to estate planning and private wealth management.
By working with Finley Davis, you gain access to tailored strategies and comprehensive support, aligning financial goals with family values. Let these essential conversations be an opportunity to connect deeply, honor your parents’ legacy, and ensure that their vision and values are preserved for generations to come.
Contact us to discuss your unique situation.
Tax and legal services are not offered by Lion Street Financial, LLC, or Lion Street Advisors, LLC.