Trust & Estate Planning
Without proper planning, the wealth you built can become tied up in court, reduced by unnecessary expenses, or distributed differently than you intended. We help families coordinate with qualified attorneys to create a clear plan for protecting assets and transferring their legacy.
Trust & Estate Planning Built Around Your Life
Without proper planning, the wealth you built can become tied up in court, reduced by unnecessary expenses, or distributed differently than you intended. We help families coordinate with qualified attorneys to create a clear plan for protecting assets and transferring their legacy.
We help you see how life insurance and beneficiary strategies fit alongside your estate documents, then coordinate with your attorney and CPA so everything works together. Estate-planning documents and legal advice are provided exclusively by independent licensed attorneys under a separate engagement. Estimate your exposure with our Federal Estate Tax and Step-Up in Basis calculators.
Request a ConsultationLegacy Protection
Helps preserve and transfer your wealth according to your wishes.
Asset Preservation
Reduces unnecessary legal costs and potential estate complications.
Family Confidence
Provides clarity and organization for future generations.
Trust & Estate Planning FAQ
Do You Write the Legal Documents?
No. Pienza Wealth Partners does not provide legal services. We coordinate with independent licensed attorneys who prepare your estate-planning documents under a separate engagement, and we make sure your insurance strategy supports the plan.
How Does Life Insurance Fit Into an Estate Plan?
Life insurance can provide tax-advantaged liquidity to cover estate costs, equalize inheritances, and leave a legacy — often keeping heirs from having to sell assets under pressure.
Run Your Own Numbers
Use the calculators below, then bring the result to a conversation with a licensed advisor.
How Much Might Your Estate Owe?
Every dollar an estate pays in federal tax is a dollar that never reaches the people it was meant for.
In 2026 each person can pass up to $15 million — $30 million for many married couples — free of federal estate tax, with amounts above that taxed at up to 40%. This estimator shows roughly where your estate stands against that threshold.
Review your numbers with an advisorFederal Estate Tax Estimator
2026 figures: $15M per-person exemption, 40% top rate. Educational estimate only — not tax or legal advice.
Step-Up in Basis Estimator
Educational estimate only — not tax or legal advice. Consult a qualified attorney or CPA.
What the Step-Up in Basis Is Worth
Sell an appreciated property during your lifetime and you owe capital gains tax on every dollar of its growth. Pass it to heirs instead and the cost basis resets to its value at your death.
That single rule can erase the tax on a lifetime of appreciation. Enter what a property cost and what it is worth now to see the size of the benefit — and why keeping it intact is worth planning for.
Review your numbers with an advisorRelated Services
Life Insurance
Provides financial support to help replace lost income and maintain your family’s lifestyle.
Learn moreMortgage Protection
Life insurance sized to cover the mortgage so your family can stay in the home — the benefit is paid to them, not the lender.
Learn moreDisability Income
Provides a portion of your income if you become unable to work due to a covered disability.
Learn moreTalk to a Licensed Advisor About Trust & Estate Planning.
Get clear, independent guidance and a personalized recommendation — with no pressure.