David P. McCabe,

WMCP®, ChFC®, CLU®

Financial Planner

david@centuriafinancial.com

 

Nathaniel D. High,

CFP®, RICP®

Financial Planner

nathaniel@centuriafinancial.com

 

Nicholas J. Over, CFP®

Financial Planner

nicholas@centuriafinancial.com

 

Sara E. Martin

Operations Manager

sara@centuriafinancial.com

 

Molly R. Kelsh

Client Service Specialist

molly@centuriafinancial.com

 

Centuria Financial Group

2333 Baltimore Blvd Suite B

Finksburg, MD 21048

 

Phone:  443-952-7232

July/August 2026

Legacy Planning Can Get Sticky

Man stepping in chewing gum on sidewalk. Concept of stickiness

Legacy planning often isn't discussed until it's almost too late. Here are six sticky pitfalls you might face and strategies to steer clear of them.


Lack of communication
Everyone has different expectations. You may assume family members are on the same page, but that's often not the case.


Avoiding it: Host family discussions about your plans. Even if it feels awkward, sharing your intentions with your family can clarify expectations and minimize future disputes.


Not having the right documents
Without the right legal documents in place, your wishes might not be honored. Wills, trusts, and powers of attorney are all essential tools in your estate strategy.


Avoiding it: Consult with a knowledgeable professional to draft comprehensive documents tailored to your situation. Make sure you revisit them periodically—life events like marriage, divorce, or the birth of a child can all shift what you need.


Ignoring tax implications
Most people don't enjoy discussing taxes, but ignoring them can create problems. Estate taxes can take a hefty bite out of your legacy if you're not prepared.


Avoiding it: To ensure more of your assets go to your loved ones instead of the IRS, explore strategies with a tax advisor to minimize your tax burden.


Unclear beneficiary designations
Life insurance policies and retirement accounts often have beneficiary designations that supersede wills. If you haven't updated these designations, they might not reflect your current wishes, leading to unintended consequences.


Avoiding it: Regularly review and update your beneficiary designations, especially after major life changes.


Overlooking digital assets
Your online accounts, cryptocurrencies, and digital subscriptions all have value, and without a plan, they can get lost in cyberspace.


Avoiding it: Create a list of your online accounts and their associated passwords. Share this with a trusted individual, and consider addressing these assets in your estate documents for clarity.


Failing to seek professional help
Many people think they can handle legacy planning on their own. But the laws surrounding it can be complex. One wrong move may lead to significant issues later. <


b>Avoiding it: Don't underestimate the value of professional advisors. Work with yours to build a well-rounded plan that considers all aspects of your legacy.

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David P. McCabe, Nathaniel D. High, and Nicholas J. Over are Financial Planners with, and offer securities and investment advisory service through LPL Enterprise (LPLE), a Registered Investment Advisor, Member FINRA/SIPC, and an affiliate of LPL Financial.
LPLE and LPL Financial are not affiliated with Centuria Financial Group.
This newsletter is general educational information provided by a Prudential Financial Professional and is not intended to market or sell any specific products and services, but rather provide general information about the subject matter covered only.
Centuria Financial Group and LTM Marketing Solutions, LLC are unrelated companies. This publication was prepared for the publication’s provider by LTM Marketing Solutions, LLC, an unrelated third party. Articles are not written or produced by the named representative.

The information and opinions contained in this web site are obtained from sources believed to be reliable, but their accuracy cannot be guaranteed. The publishers assume no responsibility for errors and omissions or for any damages resulting from the use of the published information. This web site is published with the understanding that it does not render legal, accounting, financial, or other professional advice. Whole or partial reproduction of this web site is forbidden without the written permission of the publisher.