The 2026 Estate Tax Exemption Drop: Why Orange County Families Should Plan Now
A Major Tax Change Is Coming — And It Could Impact Your Family’s Legacy
If you’ve been searching for inheritance tax advisors near me, now is one of the most important times in years to take action.
A major federal estate tax shift is approaching in 2026, and many high-net-worth families in California may be caught off guard.
Right now, the federal estate tax exemption is historically high — but that window may soon close.
At Ensa Pro Inc., we’re already helping Orange County families prepare before new limits take effect.
What’s Happening in 2026?
Under current law, the federal estate tax exemption is expected to be cut roughly in half after December 31, 2025.
That means families who are currently under the limit today may become taxable estates in 2026 and beyond.
Why This Matters
If your estate includes:
Real estate in Irvine or Newport Beach
A family business
Investment accounts
Life insurance proceeds
Retirement assets
…your total net worth may rise faster than expected.
Without planning, heirs could face a significant tax burden.
Estate Taxes in California: The Key Clarification
California does not impose a state inheritance tax.
But many California residents still face federal exposure because:
Property values are high
Wealth accumulates quickly
The federal exemption is changing
So estate planning in Orange County is largely about federal estate tax strategy, not state inheritance tax.
Who Should Be Planning Right Now?
You should consider proactive planning if your household net worth is near:
$5M+
$10M+
Or includes appreciating real estate/business assets
Even if you’re below today’s exemption, the upcoming drop could change everything.
Smart Strategies Before the Deadline
The best time to plan is before exemption limits shrink.
1. Lifetime Gifting
Taking advantage of the annual gift exclusion is one of the simplest wealth-transfer tools.
Strategic gifting can reduce the taxable estate while helping children or grandchildren today.
2. Irrevocable Trust Planning
Trusts remain one of the strongest tools for families seeking:
Asset protection
Estate tax reduction
Controlled inheritance distributions
Common options include:
ILITs (Life Insurance Trusts)
GRATs
Charitable Trusts
3. Business Succession and Valuation Discounts
Business owners in Orange County need to plan carefully.
Estate taxes can force heirs into selling a business quickly unless succession plans are in place.
4. Portability and Spousal Planning
Married couples may be able to maximize exemptions through proper filing and trust structuring.
But portability rules are complex — professional guidance is essential.
Why Work With Local Inheritance Tax Advisors Near Me?
Choosing a local advisor gives you:
✅ California probate knowledge
✅ Familiarity with Orange County courts
✅ Real estate-heavy estate expertise
✅ Face-to-face planning options
✅ Customized trust and tax strategies
At Ensa Pro Inc., we coordinate with estate attorneys and financial professionals to create plans that protect wealth across generations.
2026 Is Closer Than It Looks — Don’t Wait
Federal estate tax planning is not just for the ultra-wealthy anymore.
With the exemption expected to drop, many Orange County families may soon fall into the taxable range simply due to rising property and investment values.
The best plans are built early — not during probate.
Schedule a Free Consultation
If you want to understand how upcoming estate tax changes could affect your family, we’re here to help.
📞 Call/Text: (310) 429-5246
📍 1 Park Plaza, Irvine, CA 92614
📧 hello@ensapro.me
By appointment only
Start planning today — and protect your legacy tomorrow.