How to Protect Generational Wealth

Why Now Is the Time to Plan for What You’ve Built

The Lansky Law Firm | Peace of Mind through Preparation

Over the next two decades, families across America will experience something unprecedented: the largest transfer of wealth in history. According to Cerulli Associates, Baby Boomers are projected to pass down more than $105 trillion in assets to their heirs—primarily Gen X and Millennials.

This wealth transfer is filled with opportunity—but also risk. Studies show that 70% of family wealth is lost by the second generation, and 90% is gone by the third. The reason? A lack of planning.

At The Lansky Law Firm, we help individuals and families throughout Memphis and beyond develop personalized strategies to protect what they’ve worked so hard to build—and pass it on with intention and confidence.

1. A Will Is Not Enough

A will is an essential part of your estate plan—but it won’t keep your assets out of probate, the public legal process that can delay inheritances, incur court costs, and invite unnecessary stress.

A Revocable Living Trust is one of the most effective ways to:

• Privately transfer assets to heirs

• Avoid probate court

• Provide incapacity planning if you're unable to manage your affairs

It’s a flexible tool that gives your family clarity—and peace of mind—during a difficult time.

2. Be Strategic About Beneficiaries and Taxes

New rules under the SECURE Act have changed how retirement accounts are inherited. Non-spouse beneficiaries may now be required to withdraw inherited IRA assets within 10 years, potentially leading to higher income taxes.

Smart planning strategies can reduce this burden. Depending on your goals, we may recommend:

• Retirement Trusts to control distributions

• Charitable Remainder Trusts for tax efficiency and legacy giving

• Roth IRA conversions to minimize long-term tax liability

The goal? Keep more of your legacy in your family’s hands, not the government’s.

3. Prepare Your Heirs, Not Just Their Inheritance

Wealth isn’t lost only through taxes or legal fees—it often disappears because heirs aren’t prepared to manage it. A successful estate plan takes this into account by building in:

• Education and financial mentoring

• Staged distributions to reduce risk and encourage responsibility

• Asset protection from lawsuits, divorce, and poor financial decisions

Trusts can be customized to reflect your values, ensuring your legacy supports your loved ones—not burdens them.

The Bottom Line

We’re not just witnessing a historic wealth transfer—we’re living through a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to shape the future of your family’s financial stability.

Whether you’re just beginning to think about estate planning or it’s time for a review, the most important step is the first one. We’re here to help you take it.

Ready to take the first step toward protecting your future? Let’s start the conversation today.  Visit Us: 6800 Poplar Ave #225, Memphis, TN 38138  Call Us: (901) 767-7006  Learn More: lanskylawfirm.com 

The Lansky Law Firm Peace of Mind through Preparation.