What the new tax law means for you and your clients

Recent legislation has extended key provisions of the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, removing uncertainty around income tax brackets, the standard deduction, and lifetime gift and estate tax exclusions. For high-net-worth clients, this opens the door to proactive, tax-smart planning.

Here’s what matters most to your practice:

1. Bigger lifetime gifting window

What changed:
The lifetime gift and estate tax exemption will increase to $15M (single) / $30M (joint) in 2026 and will be indexed for inflation.

Why it matters:
This is a powerful time for clients to transfer wealth efficiently. Donor-advised funds (DAFs) can play a key role in reducing taxable estates while aligning legacy and philanthropic goals.

Ren’s advantage:
We work with you to integrate DAFs alongside trusts and other vehicles—supporting thoughtful legacy strategies for even your most complex clients.

2. Smart timing with charitable bunching

What changed:
The standard deduction is rising again in 2025: $15,750 (single) / $31,500 (joint).

Why it matters:
Some clients may lose the ability to itemize. “Bunching” multiple years of charitable giving into one tax year—often through a DAF—can restore the deduction and shrink taxable income.

Ren’s advantage:
We give you the tools and resources to guide these conversations. Our DAF platform supports flexible giving, complex asset contributions, and successor planning for long-term impact.

3. Revisit estate plans with more certainty

What changed:
Many 2017 tax provisions are now effectively permanent—making this an ideal time to review estate documents and charitable vehicles.

Why it matters:
Clients may be ready to act now that uncertainty is removed. This is a moment to realign giving tools with financial plans and explore DAFs, charitable trusts, and foundations.

Ren’s advantage:
We bring more to the table than other DAF sponsors: expert guidance, trust capabilities, flexible investment options, and support for advisors and their clients.

Why choose Ren?

  • Purpose-built to support financial advisors
  • Deep expertise in charitable planning and complex assets
  • Full suite of tools: DAFs, CRTs, CLTs, CGAs, and more
  • Support for clients with unique goals

Let’s talk strategy.
Need help navigating this with your clients?
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