In recent years fewer and fewer estates are subject to death taxes. At the same time, more Americans take advantage of tax-deferred retirement accounts (IRA, 401K, 457, and 403B plans) to accumulate savings in a way the delays or avoids taxation. 

Because of this changing dynamic, along with the passage of the SECURE Act in 2020, Americans in or nearing retirement age should receive expert guidance on how to plan distribution of their tax-deferred savings in a way that maximizes opportunities to time the taxation of those accounts in the most advantageous way to the retiree, their spouse, and descendants. Opportunities exist to maximize wealth transfer, minimize taxation, and provide lifetime support to children and grandchildren with special needs.