Financial Plans Impacted by Washington

Eido Walny Offers Post–Fiscal Cliff Estate Planning Insight on MarketWatch
Originally aired on MarketWatch’s Money, Markets & More with Alisa Parenti

In a segment for MarketWatch, Eido Walny, founder of Walny Legal Group LLC, discussed the lingering financial and estate planning implications of the fiscal cliff legislation and subsequent federal sequester.

Walny emphasized that although the fiscal cliff deal stabilized federal estate tax exemption levels, it left many critical financial planning concerns unresolved. “The legislation didn’t ban divorce or lawsuits,” he noted, stressing that asset protection remains a top priority for clients, regardless of changes to tax policy.

He also encouraged individuals not to become fixated solely on federal tax headlines. “For most people, powers of attorney, wills, and making sure assets are properly transferred still matter most,” Walny said, reinforcing the importance of personalized, foundational planning.

The conversation also highlighted the growing accessibility of estate planning, with Walny noting a shift toward transparent, flat-fee models. He reassured viewers that many attorneys—his firm included—offer upfront pricing and initial consultations at no charge, making estate planning less intimidating and more attainable.

As a final recommendation, Walny pointed to the National Association of Estate Planners & Councils (NAEPC) as a trusted resource for locating qualified estate planning professionals.

Full transcript available at:
MarketWatch – Money, Markets & More with Alisa Parenti
Read the full transcript here