As a wave of federal and Illinois legislative changes takes effect in 2026, many estate plans that were drafted years ago may no longer align with current laws, potentially exposing families to unnecessary taxes, delays, or litigation. To address this, Kravets Law Group, an Illinois business, real estate, and estate law firm, is offering complimentary estate plan reviews. The firm aims to help individuals and families enter 2026 with plans that reflect the current legal landscape rather than the one that existed when their documents were last signed.
The past year has brought several developments that could significantly impact estate planning. At the federal level, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act permanently set the federal estate tax exemption at $15 million per person beginning January 1, 2026. In Illinois, Public Act 104-0346 raised the small estate affidavit threshold from $100,000 to $150,000 and excluded registered vehicles from the calculation. Additionally, pending bills such as the Family Farm Preservation Act could further alter the picture for Illinois families. Furthermore, a set of Illinois Supreme Court Rule amendments effective January 1, 2026 refined the procedural framework governing probate and trust litigation.
These changes create both opportunities and risks. For example, the increased federal exemption may reduce the need for certain tax planning strategies, while the higher Illinois small estate threshold could simplify the administration of smaller estates. However, without a review, existing plans might fail to take advantage of these updates or could contain provisions that are now outdated. The firm's estate plan review covers core documents such as wills, revocable and irrevocable trusts, powers of attorney for property and healthcare, and beneficiary designations on retirement accounts, life insurance policies, and other assets. The review focuses on whether the documents still reflect the client's wishes, whether they align with current Illinois and federal law, and whether any recent or pending changes create planning opportunities or risks.
"Our goal with these estate plan reviews is to give people clarity, not apply pressure," said founding attorney Daniel Kravets. "I want people to walk out of the meeting knowing where they stand and what to do next, which is more than most can say about their estate plans." This client-centered approach is central to the firm's philosophy, which emphasizes partnership over transaction.
Free consultations are available in person and virtually, with scheduling flexibility for clients with demanding work schedules or mobility limitations. Appointments can be booked by phone or through the firm's website. Given the sweeping nature of the 2026 changes, proactive reviews are essential for Illinois residents to ensure their estate plans remain effective and to avoid unintended consequences.
