Additionally, if you are an executive, consider how to optimize your stock options, restricted stock units and deferred compensation. Stay informed about new awards granted, those that have vested and any nearing expiration to plan for tax implications and how your concentrated position fits into your overall balance sheet.
Consider making substantial gifts to family
Gifting wealth to future generations can offer strategic benefits, as the future appreciation on these assets should not be subject to estate tax in your estate. If you have the desire and capacity to make large gifts for the benefit of family, consider using your lifetime gift tax exclusion to give either directly to family members or to a trust.
For 2026, individuals can give up to $15 million free of transfer taxes ($30 million for a married couple). If you have already used all of your lifetime exclusion, you can still gift another $1.01 million gift-tax free this year ($2.02 million for married couples).3
Develop a charitable giving strategy
Effective philanthropy starts with having sound investment and tax-planning strategies along with a clear vision for the impact you want to make. With new tax legislation now affecting the deductibility of charitable donations, especially for those in the highest income tax bracket, it’s more important than ever to have a thoughtful gifting strategy that includes:
- Donating strategic assets, such as long-term appreciated securities or other non-cash assets to maximize tax advantages
- Partnering with your tax advisor to structure your charitable giving for optimal tax efficiency
- Regularly reviewing your giving strategy to ensure contributions and organizations align with your values and goals
Two avenues worth investigating:
- Donor-advised funds—As donors shift to more structured philanthropy, DAFs are one of the easiest ways to donate. DAFs allow you to pre-fund years of giving and in exchange, you will receive an immediate tax deduction as well as being granted the time and flexibility you need to select the organizations to support.
- Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs)— If you are at least 70.5 years old and have an IRA, you can donate $111,000 directly to a public charity (though not to a DAF) from your IRA and have that donation count toward your required minimum distribution. QCDs are not subject to the new limitations referred to above, making such distributions immediately more impactful. Note: While QCDs are an effective strategy, the tax savings from donating appreciated securities can often surpass those of QCDs, especially when the capital gains exposure is significant. Evaluate both with your tax advisor. Depending on your goals and capacity, it may be beneficial to use these strategies together.
Strengthen family ties
Family meetings are an effective way for members to build cohesiveness, share individual and family values and learn from each other.
Meeting with intentionality is key as such gatherings have the potential to deepen relationships across generations, build the skills and knowledge families need to manage wealth responsibly and collaboratively, and align individual members’ visions with the family’s overarching objectives.
Encourage participation by asking family members to help set the agenda, speak on a subject of personal interest, or lead a group discussion on a book covering a timely topic, such as philanthropic giving.
Protect your identity in an AI-driven world
As AI apps and digital tools proliferate, it’s critical to understand the threat they pose to personal data, privacy and identity. Keep in mind: Sensitive or private information can inadvertently be exposed or used to train large language models that support AI. To protect yourself, limit sharing sensitive information and use dedicated email accounts for each of your AI subscriptions.
It’s also critical to protect your accounts with strong, unique passwords and two-factor authentication to add essential layers of protection to your accounts.
The rise of AI-driven social engineering tactics—such as, phishing emails, SMiShing (text-based phishing), vishing (voice-based phishing) and deepfakes (synthetic media scams)—means it’s crucial you remain skeptical of unexpected requests for personal information: Always take the time to verify the identity of anyone who contacts you.
Further enhance your security by connecting to the Internet through a virtual private network (VPN), and keeping your devices and software up to date with the latest security patches.
In this rapidly evolving digital landscape, vigilance and proactive security habits are your best defense.
We can help prepare your finances for 2026
As you embrace the fresh start that 2026 offers, your J.P. Morgan team is here to guide you through every step. Together, we can help you and your family make the most of the opportunities ahead and build a path for you achieving your goals.
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