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Kevin McKernan Kevin McKernan

Five Big Estate Planning Mistakes - and Why you Should Act Now

Avoid the five biggest estate planning mistakes: inequity in distributions, poor fiduciary choices, lack of communication, indecision, and doing nothing. Learn why equal isn’t always fair, why timing matters, and how proactive planning reduces family conflict and litigation risk. Act now to protect your legacy and ensure your wishes are honored.

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Kevin McKernan Kevin McKernan

New York Employment Law Update: 2026 Brings a Wave of New State and Local Laws for New York Employers

New York Employment Law Update 2026: Employers face minimum wage increases, higher exempt salary thresholds, expanded uniform allowances, new anti-retaliation protections, a statewide credit check ban, Trapped at Work Act changes, expanded NYC paid and unpaid safe and sick time, and new pay transparency reporting requirements. Review policies now to ensure compliance.

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Kevin McKernan Kevin McKernan

Postnuptial Agreements as Risk Management Tools for Executives and Entrepreneurs

Postnuptial agreements are powerful risk management tools for executives and entrepreneurs. Learn how they characterize assets, protect confidentiality, reduce stakeholder risk, preserve operational control, define support obligations, and realign financial expectations. A well-structured postnup safeguards personal wealth and business stability before disputes arise, providing clarity and long-term protection.

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Kevin McKernan Kevin McKernan

Employment Tip of the Month - March 2026

March 2026 Employment Tip: Proposed amendments to New York’s Trapped at Work Act may expand employer exposure. Learn about potential delays to the effective date, revised definitions, compensation and tuition repayment exceptions, and enforcement risks. New York employers should review bonus and repayment agreements and monitor legislative updates closely.

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Kevin McKernan Kevin McKernan

New York Employers Beware: Credit Checks are Being Banned Statewide

Beginning April 18, 2026, New York State will ban most employment-related credit checks, expanding New York City’s longstanding law statewide. Employers must avoid requesting or using consumer credit history, including third-party vendor reports, or risk civil liability, damages, and penalties. Review hiring policies, job postings, and interview practices now to ensure compliance.

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Kevin McKernan Kevin McKernan

IRS Releases 2026 Retirement Contribution Limits: What to Know

The IRS has announced updated retirement contribution limits for 2026. Learn about higher IRA and Roth IRA limits, expanded income phase-out ranges, increased 401(k), 403(b), 457 plan caps, and new SIMPLE account thresholds. Review these changes to maximize tax-advantaged savings and adjust your retirement planning strategy for the year ahead.

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Kevin McKernan Kevin McKernan

Preparing for the New Year: A Guide for New York Employers as we Enter 2026

Prepare your New York business for 2026 with this employer compliance guide. Learn about minimum wage and salary threshold increases, new leave requirements, discrimination rules, Secure Choice savings, training reimbursement bans, and enforcement changes. We also review key 2025 laws now in effect and emerging proposals on non-competes, pay equity reporting, and future wage hikes.

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Kevin McKernan Kevin McKernan

Becoming a Parent in New York: The Current State of Parental Leave

Becoming a parent in New York means navigating multiple parental leave laws, including FMLA, Paid Family Leave, Paid Sick Leave, and Paid Prenatal Leave. This guide breaks down eligibility, employer coverage, paid versus unpaid leave, job protection, and benefits—helping New York employees and employers understand their rights and obligations when welcoming a new child.

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Kevin McKernan Kevin McKernan

Probate

Learn what probate is in New York, when it’s required, and how Surrogate’s Court works. This guide explains probate vs. administration, which estates can avoid probate, key steps in the process, executor duties, and common mistakes that cause delays - offering clear, compassionate guidance for families navigating probate in NYC neighborhoods like Flushing and Sheepshead Bay.

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Kevin McKernan Kevin McKernan

5 Self-Employment Tax Mistakes You Want to Avoid

Learn the top self-employment tax mistakes that can cost business owners money, penalties, and retirement benefits. This guide explains SE tax basics, the 15.3% rate, common missteps with gig income, LLCs, retirement plans, optional methods, and estimated taxes - plus practical tips to stay compliant and avoid costly surprises before filing or paying quarterly taxes as required.

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Kevin McKernan Kevin McKernan

Reviewing Estate Planning Basics

Review estate planning basics this fall to ensure your will, trusts, beneficiaries, and powers of attorney reflect major life changes. Learn when to update your estate plan, how to protect digital assets, and which tools—like trusts, gifting strategies, and regular legal reviews—can strengthen your plan and protect your family’s future.

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Kevin McKernan Kevin McKernan

What Employers Need to Know about New York State's Trapped at Work Act

New York State’s Trapped at Work Act limits when employers can require workers to repay advances, stipends, or reimbursements. Learn which employers are covered, what repayment agreements are prohibited, key exceptions, potential fines, and practical steps New York employers should take now to review policies and stay compliant.

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