Biernacki & Associates, P.C.
Biernacki & Associates, P.C.
  • 2600 Boyce Plaza Road
    Suite 100
    Pittsburgh PA 15241
  • Call Us Today For A Consultation!

    (412) 557-7726

How Pennsylvania Laws Affect Wills And Estate Planning In Washington, PA

Your Compassionate Lawyer For Wills & Estate Planning in Washington, PADeciding how to protect your family and legacy shouldn’t feel incredibly overwhelming. But when Pennsylvania’s estate planning laws change, it’s easy to feel unsure of what steps to take next. At Biernacki & Associates, P.C., Gregory Biernacki knows firsthand how confusing updating an estate plan can be, and he’s here to help you make clear, confident choices for your future. Whether you’re searching for a “will lawyer near me” or a “living will lawyer,” you deserve guidance delivered with compassion and personal attention, so you never have to navigate these important decisions alone.

Understanding The New Legal Landscape

Pennsylvania is updating its estate planning laws, which affects how residents like you plan for the future. One major change that started on January 1, 2025, focuses on the treatment of irrevocable grantor trusts. Pennsylvania will start following federal rules about these trusts, meaning any income they earn will now be taxed to the person who set up the trust, not the trust itself. While these changes might sound technical, they offer practical benefits and important opportunities for you and your loved ones.

The Impact On Will And Estate Planning

Your estate plan is meant to secure your family’s future and honor your wishes. With these new state laws, even thoughtfully prepared wills and trusts may need a fresh look. Here’s what’s important:

  • Grantor Trust Recognition
    Pennsylvania’s shift means if you created an irrevocable trust that treats you as the grantor, you’ll pay the income taxes generated by that trust. While this might sound like a setback, it actually allows the trust assets to grow more freely for your beneficiaries, avoiding double taxation and protecting more of what you’ve worked for.
  • Taxation Benefits And Strategies
    Pennsylvania doesn’t have an estate tax, but there is an inheritance tax ranging from 4% to 15% based on your beneficiary’s relationship to you. Planning your estate in today’s environment is about more than just signing a will. Tools like intentionally defective grantor trusts (IDGTs) and grantor retained annuity trusts (GRATs) can help you minimize taxes and pass on as much as possible to the ones you love.
  • Adapting With Trusted, Caring Guidance
    Legal changes can leave even the most careful planners feeling anxious about what’s next. You might be wondering if you should meet with a will lawyer or living will lawyer now. At Biernacki & Associates, P.C., we listen to your concerns, explain every option in plain language, and craft a plan that fits your unique needs and family circumstances.
Phone
Call Us Today For A Consultation! (412) 557-7726

Local Focus: The Washington, PA Community

Your Compassionate Lawyer For Wills & Estate Planning in Washington, PA

Washington, Pennsylvania, isn’t just your hometown, it’s a place where community and tradition still matter. The Washington County Courthouse stands as a symbol of stability and heritage. When you make decisions about your estate right here in Washington, PA, you’re caring not only for your loved ones but also adding to the rich legacy of our community.

Just as the courthouse stands resilient, a strong estate plan lets you pass on stability and values to future generations. Using recent legal updates to your advantage means preserving what matters most and protecting your family’s wellbeing.

Key Opportunities Under New Pennsylvania Laws

With estate planning rules evolving, now is the right time to review your approach and make any necessary changes.

Here’s how you can protect your future in Washington, PA:

  • Update Your Wills And Trusts
    In light of the new grantor trust rules, reviewing and possibly revising your existing documents is essential. This is your opportunity to make sure your will and any living wills are up to date and serving your goals.
  • Explore Strategic Trusts For Your Assets
    Trusts such as GRATs and IDGTs are becoming popular for a reason. These options help move appreciating assets out of your taxable estate and can safeguard them for your family. This is especially helpful if inheritance taxes are a concern.
  • Reduce Inheritance Tax Burdens
    In Pennsylvania, inheritance taxes can significantly affect what your heirs receive. Giving thoughtful gifts during your lifetime or carefully structuring your trusts can help minimize this impact and ensure more of your legacy reaches the people you care about.
  • Personalized Legal Guidance Matters
    Every family is different, and so is every estate plan. Meeting face-to-face with an experienced will lawyer helps you understand your options and brings peace of mind, knowing your plan fits your specific circumstances.
Phone
Call Us Today For A Consultation! (412) 557-7726

Legal Guidance with Heart from Biernacki & Associates, P.C.

Your Compassionate Lawyer For Wills & Estate Planning in Washington, PA

At Biernacki & Associates, P.C., you’ll have more than just legal know-how on your side, you’ll discover a team led by Gregory Biernacki that truly cares about the people behind the paperwork. Gregory’s background spans years of helping clients in Washington, PA, navigate not only estate planning but also real estate and property issues. His unique combination of legal proficiency and real-world experience as a licensed real estate broker means you get advice grounded in deep local knowledge.

Gregory knows how personal these decisions are, especially when you’re planning for the future or coping with loss. He and his team take time to get to know your story, guide you through complex topics in everyday language, and create clear, practical solutions for your family’s needs. When you’re seeking a “will lawyer near me” or need guidance with a living will, you can trust you’re in good hands.

Take Charge Of Your Legacy Today

You don’t have to navigate these changes alone. As Pennsylvania’s laws shift, your estate plan should change and grow right along with them. This creates a clear path to securing your loved ones’ futures and protecting what matters most to you.

If you’re in Washington, PA, and feeling unsure where to start, reach out to get started today. Contact Gregory Biernacki and his team at Biernacki & Associates, P.C. by calling (412) 557-7726 or visiting www.biernackilaw.biz. Let us provide the peace of mind, clarity, and personal guidance you deserve. Now is the time to protect your legacy and support those you care for. Don’t wait for future changes to catch you off guard. We’re ready to help you move forward with confidence.

References

  1. New Laws for a New Year: Year-End Estate Planning in Preparation for 2025
  2. New Law Alert – Pennsylvania Adopts Federal Grantor Trust Rules in 2025
  3. How to Avoid Pennsylvania Inheritance Tax - Updated for 2025
  4. Pennsylvania Estate Planning 2025: New Laws, Old Tools, and the Future
  5. Pennsylvania Estate Tax Explained 2025 • Learn with Valur
  6. Washington County Courthouse (Pennsylvania) - Wikipedia
Phone
Call Us Today For A Consultation! (412) 557-7726