The 2026 Washington State Legislative Session was quite active for a short 60-day session. Despite the short session, multiple changes were made regarding the Business & Occupation tax, Sales tax, Estate tax, and Capital Gains tax.

Even the best estate plan will go sideways without the right fiduciaries ready to step in and manage your affairs when you are no longer able to do so, whether by reason of death or incapacity during lifetime. It can be difficult to make these selections, considering family dynamics, time burden, availability, cost and the skills required. Thoughtful consideration in advance will be a gift to your loved ones when they may be called to enact your wishes.

It is easy to put off creating or updating an estate plan. Afterall, most of us believe we have at least a bit more time before it will be necessary and the excuses are obvious and plentiful. Herein, we will outline common impediments and corresponding benefits of a relevant plan with the intent of encouraging us all to take on the challenge.

When we think of estate planning, we often think of legal documents, trusts and tax strategies. Often, the most challenging aspect of creating a successful plan is the human element: your family’s unique dynamics. The good news is that many common conflicts are predictable and can be reduced with planning and clear communication.

Tax season often sends people searching through old emails, letters and statements to find documents for their tax professionals. Amid this administrative clutter, many look for ways to simplify their charitable reporting. For those who are philanthropically inclined, a donor-advised fund (DAF) can simplify both the giving process and the associated tax paperwork.

In recent years there has been an increase in reports of deed theft, in which the title or deed to a property is fraudulently transferred from the rightful owner of a property to a third-party, whether through forged signatures, impersonations or other means.

As we head into 2026, you may be navigating the year-over-year changes and asking yourself: What has changed and what should I care about? From retirement account contribution limits to rollover rules and required distributions, a few key updates are worthy of your attention.  

As we grow older, many of us will need to decide where to live next when our current home becomes too difficult to manage, and assistance is required. Deciding when and where to move can feel daunting, as can the various financial arrangements available to pay for the move.