Kristen LaBate

11/10/2026

Let's talk about estate taxes. Did you know estate taxes typically account for about one percent of total federal revenue? I didn't!

The current estate tax exemption per individual is $15M.

Federal estate taxes have long been a source of funding for the federal government.

05/10/2026

Posting a bit late on this! Big shout out to the amazing folks in my study group.

In my industry a study group is a peer to peer forum of finance professionals who meet regularly to share expertise, discuss cases, learn from one another, and improve their respective practices.

Some of the topics we work through when we are together are—complex client cases, best practices, exposure to outside experts, industry trends, and accountability plans.

My time spent here is particularly valuable because I can't be an expert in every area and investing time outside of my practice to get better pays dividends to my clients.

Also, learning has an extra BIG IMPACT when there is a plan in place to take action later, so I appreciate each and every one of you and your curiosity in my success. I always return feeling rejuvenated and excited about what's next!


,GA

09/09/2026

Last year, I had the privilege of doing some really meaningful estate planning for one of my longest tenured clients.

We implemented their strategy with Penn Mutual, US Bank, and a boutique wealth firm out of New York City. The experience ultimately led to an invitation to Penn Mutual’s Advanced Planning Conference in Nashville this summer.

I left the conference with pages of notes, new ideas, and even more appreciation for how much informed, thoughtful planning can impact a family financially and emotionally.

Estate planning is one of those tricky conversations people know they need to have, but so easily put off, however, here a few sentiments my clients have after they finally tackle the elephant in the room:

“I feel so much better knowing this is taken care of. I’ve been meaning to do this for years, I just didn't know where to start.”

“I finally feel like my family will understand what I do, and we are all on the same page.”

"I am so relieved my hard work has a real legacy now, and everyone in the family has a defined role now and in the future when I am gone."

If estate planning has been sitting on your “to-do list," maybe this is your reminder to move it to the top of the list. The greatest gift you can leave your family is direction and clarity, not just assets.

For business owners, this may mean creating a thoughtful buy-out strategy for the forty years of hard work and sacrifices—rather than leaving your family to figure it out during an already difficult time.

For others, it means having the funding in place for a significant federal estate tax liability, so the surviving family isn't forced to fire sale assets or dissect the business to pay the IRS bill, which is due nine months after the date of death.

It's time to take control of these decisions while you still have control. So, is there an estate planning conversation you need to have? How can I help!?

07/09/2026

Celebrating Labor Day!

Your hard work fuels your dreams, and on this Labor Day, take a break. We hope you enjoy your weekend relaxing and spending it in a restorative way. And for all of those who work on Labor Day...retail, essential services, and emergency services, thank you!

14/08/2026

What is it about August?

11/08/2026

Wildfire smoke is traveling far from the flames, creating poor air quality in much of the US right now. We now have smoke forecasts being added to our weather reports.

Experts say one of the biggest risks comes from tiny particles in the air, which can contribute to short-term and chronic health issues. These particles are measured in PM2.5.

Wildfire smoke can cause symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest tightness, headaches, and burning eyes or nose.

If you have central air conditioning, use the highest level of filtration your system can handle. Filters rated MERV 13 or higher are ideal, and setting the system to recirculate can help limit outside air.

A portable HEPA air filter can also help. If you only have one, consider using it to create a “clean room” where you can spend most of your time.

My favorite air filter is an "Austin Air" or "Air Doctor" filter to keep my lungs just a little less stressed in these smokey heat dome summer days. Is this our new reality?




Source:

When the air is smoky from burning wildfires, health experts say to stay indoors. But there are steps you should take to keep the air clean inside your home.

09/08/2026

Interesting Fact:

The price of a first-class Forever stamp rose from 78 cents to 82 cents on July 12.

The increase is part of a series of price hikes from the U.S. Postal Service, which has raised the cost of a first-class stamp several times in recent years.

Other postage costs also increased. Domestic postcards rose to 65 cents, while international postcards and letters rose to $1.75.

One important reminder: Forever stamps purchased before the increase still work after the price change. They continue to cover the current cost of one ounce of First-Class Mail postage.



Source:

The cost of a first-class Forever stamp has climbed 41% since 2021, and postal officials have signaled they want prices to rise even more.

07/08/2026

There are so many reasons to create a will this month, but here are three big ones to consider:

Direct Your Property: Creating a will tells the courts how you want your property distributed. Without a will, state laws will determine how your estate is divided, which may not align with your intentions.

Provide instructions to the probate court: A will can help manage the probate process, providing instructions to the court.

Designate Guardianship for Minor Children: If you have minor children, a will allows you to appoint a guardian to care for them. This crucial step directs that your children are raised by someone you trust, rather than leaving the decision to the courts.

20/07/2026

04/07/2026

Isn't it amazing to call America our home? Happy 250th Birthday America!

Independence isn't merely a day on the calendar; it's part of daily life in the United States. Let's continue to protect it.

From my family to yours, wishing you a wonderful Independence Day and holiday weekend!