Dean, Jacobson Financial Services, LLC

The beginning of a new year is a natural time to reset priorities and revisit important financial decisions—including your estate plan.

Estate planning isn’t just about transferring assets. It’s about helping protect your family, reducing uncertainty, and making sure your wishes are clearly documented. As life evolves, your estate plan should evolve with it.

If you experienced major life events in 2025—a move, retirement, marriage, divorce, new grandchildren, or changes in your financial situation—your estate plan may need updates. But even if nothing significant changed, an annual review helps ensure everything remains aligned.

Here are five smart steps to consider early in 2026:

1. Confirm your will and trust reflect your current wishes.

Outdated documents can create confusion and unintended consequences. Review named executors, trustees, guardians, and distribution instructions.

2. Double check beneficiary designations.

Retirement accounts, life insurance policies, and transfer-on-death accounts pass directly to named beneficiaries—not through your will. Make sure these are accurate and coordinated with your broader plan.

3. Review powers of attorney and healthcare directives.

If you became incapacitated tomorrow, who would step in to manage financial or medical decisions? Confirm the individuals you’ve chosen are still appropriate and informed.

4. Reassess estate tax exposure.

While federal estate tax exemptions remain historically high, future legislative changes are always possible. Additionally, some states impose their own estate or inheritance taxes. Proactive planning can help reduce potential burdens for heirs.

5. Organize and simplify.

The new year is an ideal time to consolidate accounts, organize key documents, and create a clear inventory of assets. A well-organized estate makes things far easier for loved ones.

Taking time now can prevent stress and uncertainty later.

If you’d like to review your estate plan or coordinate with your attorney, our team is here to help.

Spotlight: Why Estate Planning Is About More Than Money

Estate planning is often viewed as a legal exercise, but it’s really about clarity and care.
A thoughtful estate plan can help:

• Avoid family conflict
• Provide guidance for minor children or dependents
• Protect vulnerable beneficiaries
• Streamline the administration process
• Preserve family values and charitable intentions

Without a plan, state laws determine how assets are distributed—which may not reflect your intentions.

Planning isn’t about expecting the worst. It’s about preparing responsibly.

Family Focus: Starting the Conversation in 2026

Many families delay estate discussions because they feel uncomfortable. But open communication can reduce misunderstandings and build trust. Here are a few ways to approach the topic:

• Choose a calm, distraction-free setting.
• Frame the conversation around preparation, not pessimism.
• Share your values and intentions, not just numbers.
• Explain key roles (executor, trustee, healthcare proxy).
• Invite questions and encourage ongoing dialogue.

These conversations can be one of the most meaningful gifts you give your family.

Recipe Corner: New Year Comfort Soup

A simple, nourishing meal to enjoy during cold evenings.

Ingredients:
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, chopped
2 carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, chopped
1 cup shredded cooked chicken
4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 cup cooked brown rice
Salt, pepper, and thyme to taste

Instructions:
Sauté onion, carrots, and celery in olive oil until softened.
Add broth and bring to a simmer.
Stir in chicken and rice.
Season to taste and simmer 10–15 minutes.

Warm, simple meals pair well with thoughtful planning.

Estate Planning Quiz

Test your knowledge:

1. True or False: If you have a will, your estate automatically avoids probate.
   
2. Which of the following typically passes directly to a named beneficiary?
   
   A. Retirement accounts
   B. Life insurance policies
   C. Transfer-on-death accounts
   D. All of the above
   
3. True or False: Estate plans should be reviewed only once, when they’re first created.
   
4. Which document appoints someone to make medical decisions if you are unable to do so?
   
   A. Power of attorney
   B. Healthcare directive
   C. Trust agreement
   D. Beneficiary designation

Answers:

1.  False – A will directs probate but does not avoid it.
2.  D – These accounts generally transfer directly to named beneficiaries.
3.  False – Estate plans should be reviewed regularly.
4.  B – A healthcare directive (or medical power of attorney) addresses medical decisions.

The new year is an excellent time to ensure your estate plan reflects your goals and protects the people you care about most.
If you’d like to schedule a review, please contact our office. We’re here to help you move into 2026 with clarity and confidence.

Best regards,

DEAN, JACOBSON FINANCIAL SERVICES

Securities and Retirement Plan Consulting Program advisory services offered through LPL Financial, a Registered Investment Advisor, member FINRA/SIPC. Other advisory services and investment advice offered through Dean, Jacobson Financial Services, LLC, a Registered Investment Advisor, and separate entity from LPL Financial.

*The views expressed are offered through Dean, Jacobson Financial Services, and do not necessarily represent the opinions of the firm or its advisors, nor those of LPL Financial. These views should not be construed as investment advice. Please contact advisors at Dean, Jacobson Financial Services for specific questions or explanations on interpreting this information for your personal circumstances. This material was prepared by Carson Coaching. Carson Coaching is not affiliated with the named broker/dealer or firm.