Money can be a challenging topic of conversation for a parent to have with their children because the stakes feel high. In discussions around succession planning, the top concerns our clients share with us are: What will happen if I share too much? Will they lose motivation to work? Will they expect more support financially? Am I setting them up to spend lavishly?  

Thoughts like these are common and understandable but worrying about the outcome should not stop you from doing the best you can to prepare for the moment they are in charge. These conversations often serve as an incredible opportunity to work as a family to determine what is important and to learn about each other. Approaching the discussion with an open mind and curiosity is key for you and your children to create a succession plan that works for both generations.

Q2 2022 brought some of the worst returns in recent memory when all asset classes are considered. The Fed raised rates by 125 basis points during the quarter to an upper bound of 1.75%, GDP estimates have been revised lower, but our economy is still showing signs of strength as the labor market continues to grow. We have finally closed the gap in the level of manufacturing employment to where we were prior to Covid and temporary and permanent job losers are back to prior lows. There is little doubt that there is a heightened risk of a recession, and the next few months will be critical to how it all plays out.

Legislation introduced in 2020 and then expanded and codified earlier this year has strengthened access to qualified retirement savings plans for businesses and employees. It has also complicated the use of such plans as part of an estate planning strategy.

In this piece, we provide an overview of the relevant legislative actions and regulations, implications for both plan participants and their beneficiaries, and strategies to adjust to these changes in an optimal manner.