At Axis Estate Planning, we believe that planning ahead brings peace of mind — whether you’re preparing for retirement, managing inherited assets, or facing life’s unexpected challenges such as Alzheimer’s disease. As we near the end of 2025, two topics are shaping many families’ financial and legal decisions: the real-world impact of the SECURE 2.0 Act and the growing importance of proactive estate planning for those living with Alzheimer’s disease.
Secure 2.0: The Good, the Confusing, and the Lessons Learned
When Congress passed the SECURE 2.0 Act in late 2022, it aimed to make saving for retirement easier and more flexible. Now that we’ve lived with these rules for a while, we can see what’s working — and what still needs clarification.
What’s Working
- Later Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs).
Retirees now have until age 73 (and eventually 75, beginning in 2033) before they must begin taking distributions from IRAs and other retirement accounts. This extra time allows for more tax-deferred growth and smarter withdrawal strategies. - Bigger Catch-Up Contributions.
Starting in 2025, individuals aged 60–63 will be able to contribute more to their retirement plans. This update gives those who may have taken time off work or had saving gaps a chance to build stronger financial security before retirement. - Employer Matching on Student Loan Payments.
Younger employees paying down student loans can now benefit from employer retirement matches — even if they aren’t contributing directly to a retirement account. This thoughtful change helps new professionals start long-term saving sooner.
What’s Not Working (Yet)
- Confusing Beneficiary Rules.
The elimination of “stretch IRAs” and the introduction of the 10-year payout rule have caused widespread confusion — especially regarding trusts and required annual withdrawals. Even with new IRS proposals, families remain uncertain about how to comply. - Roth Catch-Up Contribution Challenges.
The rule requiring high-income earners to make catch-up contributions as Roth deposits has proven difficult to implement for many employers, leading to administrative headaches and delays. - Missed Opportunities for Coordination.
Many savers haven’t adjusted their estate plans to align with the SECURE 2.0 updates. Changes to RMD timing, Roth conversions, and charitable giving can significantly impact tax efficiency and inheritance planning — especially for those considering Medicaid eligibility in Michigan.
Practical Takeaways
- Review Beneficiary Designations. Outdated stretch IRA plans may no longer apply under current rules.
- Revisit Withdrawal Strategies. The later RMD age could open doors for strategic Roth conversions or qualified charitable distributions.
- Coordinate with Your Estate Plan. Ensure your trusts and estate documents still reflect your goals and today’s tax laws.
- Ask About Employer Updates. Confirm how your workplace handles Roth contributions and student loan matching.
At Axis Estate Planning, we help clients weave together their retirement, tax, and estate planning strategies so each works in harmony — not in conflict.
Estate Planning and Alzheimer’s Disease: Protecting Dignity Through Preparation
A diagnosis of Alzheimer’s can feel overwhelming. At Axis Estate Planning, we understand the emotional weight that comes with caring for a loved one — or receiving the diagnosis yourself. One of the most empowering steps you can take is putting a comprehensive estate plan in place early, while decisions can still be made with clarity and confidence.
Why Timing Matters
Legal capacity — the ability to understand and communicate one’s wishes — is essential in estate planning. Because Alzheimer’s is progressive, acting early ensures your or your loved one’s choices are protected before the disease advances.
Essential Documents for Alzheimer’s Planning
- Durable Power of Attorney for Finances – Lets trusted agents handle finances safely and responsibly.
- Health Care Power of Attorney (Health Care Proxy) – Appoints someone to make medical decisions in alignment with your wishes.
- Living Will – Clarifies preferences about life-sustaining treatment and comfort care.
- Dementia-Specific Advance Directive – Provides clear care guidance across different stages of Alzheimer’s.
- Last Will and Testament and/or Revocable Trust – Directs how assets are distributed and ensures your legacy is honored.
Without these documents, families may be forced into guardianship or conservatorship proceedings, which are time-consuming, costly, and emotionally taxing. With the right planning, you can spare your loved ones from this burden.
How Axis Estate Planning Can Help
Our attorneys specialize in helping Michigan families:
- Protect assets from long-term care costs.
- Draft or update advance directives and care plans.
- Appoint trusted decision-makers.
- Avoid guardianship when possible.
- Ensure all documents comply with Michigan law.
Planning Ahead Brings Peace of Mind
Whether you’re navigating the changes of the SECURE 2.0 Act or preparing for the challenges of Alzheimer’s, the common thread is the need for a coordinated, forward-thinking plan.
At Axis Estate Planning, our mission is to help you protect your family, your assets, and your peace of mind.
Visit Us: 900 Wilshire Drive, Suite 105, Troy, MI 48084
Call Us: (248) 251-1001
Learn More: www.axisattorneys.com
