Estate planning is not a form to fill out. It is a personal process that reflects what you have built, who you love, and what you want to protect. At Morgan Legal Group, attorney Russel Morgan, Esq. works directly with each client across New York to build a plan shaped around their individual goals — not a generic template.
What a Complete New York Estate Plan Covers
A coordinated plan under New York law typically includes:
| Document | Governing Law | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Last Will & Testament | EPTL §3-2.1 | Directs asset distribution; requires two attesting witnesses |
| Revocable or Irrevocable Trust | EPTL Article 7 | Avoids probate; irrevocable trusts support Medicaid planning & tax reduction |
| Durable Power of Attorney | GOL §5-1513 (2021 form) | Authorizes a trusted agent for financial decisions |
| Health Care Proxy | NY Public Health Law Art. 29-C | Designates an agent for medical decisions |
Why the 2026 Estate Tax Cliff Matters to You
New York’s basic exclusion is $7,350,000 for deaths in 2026. Estates exceeding $7,717,500 (105% of the exclusion) lose the entire exemption — taxed from dollar one at rates up to 16%. If your estate may approach this threshold, early planning through an irrevocable trust or strategic gifting is critical. New York has no gift tax, but gifts within three years of death are added back. See our NY estate tax guide for a full breakdown.
No two situations are alike — whether you need a simple will, a trust for a child with special needs (EPTL 7-1.12), a power of attorney, or a coordinated healthcare proxy, your plan starts with your story.
Schedule Your Personal Consultation
Morgan Legal Group serves clients throughout New York — NYC, Long Island, Westchester, the Hudson Valley, and Upstate. Book a 30-minute consultation and take the first step toward a plan built around you.
Have a question about your estate?
Talk it through with Russel Morgan — free 30-minute consult.
Further reading from Morgan Legal Group: .