Historic Exemptions and Rates for Estate, Gift, and GST Taxes May Not Last Long!

Heather G. Walser • October 7, 2020

The current federal exemptions from estate, gift, and GST tax are at an all-time high, but these exemptions and the applicable tax rates could be affected by the upcoming presidential and congressional elections. Any such changes made well into next year could be retroactive to January 1, 2021, and these historic exemptions would be lost. Even without any immediate government action, the current $11.58 million unified credit will “sunset” in 2026, and be reduced to $5 million. In light of this, the remaining months of 2020 are an unprecedented opportunity to protect your estate and your loved ones from significant transfer taxes after your death. In this podcast, estate planning attorney Heather Walser explains why it’s so important to take advantage of these extraordinary exemptions and tax rates before it’s too late.


Podcast Link

More News & Resources

Lavelle Law News and Events

Lavelle Law Secures Emergency Guardianship and Protects a Vulnerable Mother from Exploitation
By Litigation January 8, 2026
Success Story: Lavelle Law secures emergency guardianship and protects a vulnerable mother from exploitation in unique and challenging case.
Dealerships should disclose the use of website consumer tracking tools &  implement proper consents.
By Sarah J. Reusché and Mitchell J. Parker January 5, 2026
If you are an auto dealer concerned about the risk of facing class action litigation from the use of consumer tracking technology, it is important that you fully understand the data-collection and consumer tracking tools in use on your website and take the proper steps to minimize your risk.
Happy New Year from Near and Far and Lavelle Law!
By Lavelle Law December 31, 2025
Happy New Year! As we say farewell to 2025, we’re excited to look back on some cool travel destinations of our Koozie Challenge - from fiery volcanoes in Guatemala to icy glaciers in Alaska! A big thank you to our family and friends who took part in the fun. We wish you a happy and adventurous new year!
Over 280 New Illinois Laws are going into effect in 2026.
By Lavelle Law December 19, 2025
Over 280 New Illinois Laws are going into effect in 2026. We have listed and summarized some that may have a significant impact on you or your business.
IRS Issues Guidance on Trump Accounts Established Under the Working Families Tax Cuts
By Timothy M. Hughes December 10, 2025
The Department of the Treasury and the Internal Revenue Service recently issued a notice announcing upcoming regulations and providing guidance regarding Trump Accounts, which are a new type of individual retirement account (IRA) for eligible children.
Consider this two-part test when finding the right attorney or law firm.
By Kerry M. Lavelle December 9, 2025
How do you choose the right attorney or law firm for your needs? Attorney Kerry Lavelle has refined his answer to this common question into a clear, two-part test - one that helps individuals and businesses identify legal representation that is both highly competent and truly client-focused.
IL Condominium Law: Updates, HOA Strategies, & Financing Insights - a presentation recording
November 24, 2025
Daday and Kish discussed the essentials of Illinois condominium and common interest community association law. The presentation highlighted recent legal updates impacting HOA operations and addressed key issues in collections and safeguarding the financial interests of the association.
Understanding Grandparent Visitation Rights in Illinois
By Elizabeth C. Thompson November 19, 2025
While Illinois law recognizes that grandparents can play a vital role in a child’s life, it also strongly defers to the rights of parents. A grandparent seeking visitation must overcome a high legal threshold and demonstrate that denial of contact would likely harm the child’s well-being.
Behind the Scenes of Our 2025 Food Drive Delivery Day!
By Lavelle Law Charities November 17, 2025
The 2025 Lavelle Law Charities Food Drive wrapped up excitingly on October 24, 2025! After weeks of heartfelt community giving, Lavelle Law team members personally delivered an enormous haul to the Schaumburg Township Food Pantry.
Impact of Partial Government Shutdown on IRS – Day 41
By Timothy M. Hughes November 10, 2025
Impact of Partial Government Shutdown on IRS – Day 41: Due to the current lapse in appropriations, IRS operations are limited. However, the underlying tax law remains in effect, and all taxpayers must continue to meet their tax obligations as normal.
More Posts