Estate Tax Planning
Preserve wealth. Minimize taxes. Protect what matters.
Why QTIP Trusts Matter
Without a strategic plan, your estate could face significant federal and state estate tax liabilities—leaving less for your heirs and complicating the transfer of assets. In California, there is no state estate tax, but federal rules still apply. In Washington, estates exceeding $3 million (as of July 1, 2025) are subject to state-level estate tax—in addition to any federal tax.
At Wade Law Offices, we help individuals and families in
California and Washington reduce their estate tax exposure through proactive, customized planning. Whether your goal is to preserve a family business, protect real estate, or pass on wealth efficiently, we craft strategies that maximize exemptions and minimize tax burdens.
How We Can Help
Legal strategies tailored to reduce estate tax liability:
Design marital, bypass, and irrevocable trusts to reduce taxable estate value
Use lifetime gifting to leverage federal exemptions and reduce estate size
Coordinate with valuation experts to establish defensible asset values
Integrate charitable giving and family foundation planning
Customize plans for blended families, business owners, and high-net-worth individuals
Ensure compliance with IRS and Washington Department of Revenue rules
Why Clients Choose Wade Law Offices
Focused planning. Deep knowledge. Tailored for Washington and California families.
- Advanced tax knowledge—many attorneys hold LL.M. degrees in Taxation
- Proven experience with federal and Washington estate tax planning
- Integrated planning for estates, trusts, gifting, and business assets
- Clear, compassionate guidance for complex financial and family dynamics
Frequently Asked Questions
Who needs to worry about estate taxes?
If your estate exceeds the federal exemption (currently over $13 million per individual) or $3 million in Washington (as of July 2025), estate tax planning is essential.
What’s the difference between federal and state estate tax?
Federal estate tax applies nationwide, while only some states—like Washington—impose their own estate tax on top of it.
Do trusts help reduce estate taxes?
Yes. Properly structured trusts can remove assets from your taxable estate and provide control over how assets are distributed.
Can charitable giving reduce my estate tax?
Absolutely. Charitable gifts can be deducted from the taxable estate and used strategically in your overall plan.
When should I start estate tax planning?
The earlier, the better. Lifetime planning options like gifting or asset transfers are most effective when done proactively.
We’re Ready to Help
Minimize your estate tax exposure. Maximize your legacy.