Estate Accountant Near Me: Here’s What They Don’t Tell You

When it comes to inheritance planning, protecting your assets can be complicated. Having a will is not enough; there are important details to think about, such as tax laws and probate processes. Did you know that over 60% of Americans don’t have an estate plan in place? Without proper planning, your assets could face legal delays and unexpected taxes. This is where an estate accountant can make a significant difference.

Finding the Right Estate Accountant Near Me

When looking for an “estate accountant near me,” it’s crucial to consider their expertise in tax laws. In Florida, inheritance laws can be complex, and without proper planning, your assets could end up in probate, delaying distribution to your heirs.

Things to look for when choosing an estate accountant:

Proven Experience: Choose an accountant with a history of managing estates like yours.
Credentials: Certified Public Accountants (CPAs) who specialize in estate planning.
Strategic Approach: Find someone who can provide custom solutions, like trusts or gifting plans, to help lower taxes.

Example: Jane, a retiree in Miami, worked with an estate accountant to establish a revocable living trust. This allowed her to bypass probate and ensure her assets were distributed seamlessly to her children.

In Florida, inheritance laws can be tricky, especially if you don’t have a will. Without one, assets are distributed through intestate succession, which means the court will determine who inherits based on state laws. Working with a tax expert can help you maximize savings and navigate complex estate tax rules. Learn how a Fort Myers tax accountant can help you save on taxes.

Navigating Inheritance Taxes: What You Need to Know

While Florida does not impose a state inheritance or estate tax, federal estate taxes may still apply if your estate surpasses the exemption threshold. As of 2025, the federal estate tax exemption is $13.71 million for individuals.

How an estate accountant can help :

Federal Estate Tax Planning: Developing strategies to reduce taxable estate value through charitable giving or asset restructuring.
Gift Tax Strategies: Transferring assets during your lifetime to minimize estate tax liabilities.
Trust Planning: Establishing irrevocable trusts to protect your assets from future tax exposure and creditors.

Case Study: A Florida entrepreneur with a $20 million estate consulted an estate accountant who implemented a grantor-retained annuity trust (GRAT). This move allowed him to pass wealth to his heirs with minimal tax implications.

Example:

A family in Tampa tried DIY estate planning but missed critical tax exemptions. An estate accountant later identified missed opportunities that could have saved them $50,000 in taxes.

Common Estate Planning Mistakes to Avoid

Failing to Update Your Plan: Life changes such as marriage, divorce, or the birth of children require updates.
Ignoring Tax Implications: Without proper planning, heirs may face significant tax burdens.
Not Considering Probate Avoidance: Simple steps like setting up beneficiary designations can save time and legal costs.

Conclusion

Hiring an estate accountant is key to successful inheritance planning. They provide expert advice on protecting your assets, managing taxes, and ensuring smooth estate distribution.

Florida’s lack of state estate tax is an advantage, but careful planning is still needed to avoid federal taxes and probate delays. Whether you want to reduce taxes, protect assets, or simplify the processes, an estate accountant can help.

If you’re looking to lower taxes, protect assets, or ensure easy estate distribution, an estate accountant can be a huge help. They offer the guidance you need for smart inheritance planning. Secure your future now—contact us today