Understanding Estate Tax Exemptions and Implications

What do the St. Louis Rams and Prince have in common? Their stories illustrate the pros and cons of an ILIT—or, more accurately, what happens when estate planning tools like an ILIT aren’t used at all. https://www.youtube.com/live/ni7KgQ_ZTLI They both became cautionary tales of what happens when estate planning falls short. When Georgia Frontiere passed away, her heirs were forced to sell the Rams to cover estate taxes. Prince’s estate? Still tied up in probate years after his death. These aren’t stories of neglect or ignorance. These are stories of high-capacity individuals who didn’t have the right tools in place. And that’s why today’s conversation matters. Because we’re diving into a financial strategy that could mean the difference between your family being forced to sell a cherished asset—or preserving it for generations. We’re talking about ILITs: Irrevocable Life Insurance Trusts. Why ILITs Matter More Than You Might ThinkWhat Is an ILIT and How Does It Work?Estate Taxes: Why the Exemption Threshold MattersThe Pros and Cons of an ILITThe Pros of Using an ILITThe Cons of Using an ILITWhen Does an ILIT Make Sense?Strategic Flexibility: You Don’t Have to Choose All or NothingThe Generational Impact of Strategic PlanningIs an ILIT Right for You?Book A Strategy Call Why ILITs Matter More Than You Might Think Whether you’re familiar with ILITs or hearing the term for the first time, this strategy could hold the key to protecting your estate, reducing tax liability, and setting up your heirs for success. But it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. In fact, it may not be the right move for everyone—but for some, it can be one of the most powerful wealth-preserving tools available. This blog will unpack what an ILIT is, how it works, and most importantly, the pros and cons of an ILIT. We’ll also explore the real-life application of ILITs, share client insights, and equip you with actionable steps you can take. By the end, you’ll know if this tool aligns with your multigenerational vision and the legacy you want to leave. And if it does, you’ll be empowered to act decisively. What Is an ILIT and How Does It Work? An ILIT—short for Irrevocable Life Insurance Trust—is exactly what it sounds like: a trust that holds life insurance outside of your estate. It has its own tax ID, its own trustee (not you), and its own beneficiaries. This separation means that when you pass, the death benefit doesn’t get added to your estate total—which could potentially save your heirs from paying up to 40% in federal estate tax on that benefit. At the state level, those percentages could be even more aggressive depending on where you live. That’s the power of an ILIT: separation equals protection. It turns your life insurance policy into a strategic asset that bypasses probate and keeps your wealth intact. Estate Taxes: Why the Exemption Threshold Matters Right now, the estate tax exemption for a couple is over $26 million. That means if your estate is worth less than that, you won’t owe federal estate taxes. But here’s the catch: that number is a moving target. It’s not static, and it’s not guaranteed. Congress has changed it before and will likely do so again. Under previous administrations, the exemption was as low as $2 million. And with $36 trillion in national debt and rising, the likelihood of Congress lowering that threshold is very real. It’s not a matter of if the rules will change—it’s a matter of when. And if you wait until after they do, it may be too late to put the right tools in place. That means even if your estate is valued at $10 or $15 million today, you could face estate taxes tomorrow—unless you plan proactively. The Pros and Cons of an ILIT The Pros of Using an ILIT Reduces Estate Taxes: The biggest benefit. By keeping the death benefit outside your estate, you prevent your estate from ballooning in value and triggering taxes.