The HuB ~ Spring Newsletter
Moments of Transition
Welcome to the 5th edition of The HuB
With the end of another school year and the beginning of summer, this edition of the HuB newsletter reflects on what moments of transition can offer.
Generational changes surface during many moments of transition and we have been featuring insights on those dynamics. In the last issue of the HuB we shared an article on Intergenerational Connections: What Unites Us Matters More Than What Divides Us, which explored research on unifying trends and generational distinctions. Building on that theme, we hope the topics featured in this edition—from family philanthropy to legal developments affecting 18-21 year olds—serve as a helpful starting point for conversations with family, friends, and colleagues.
As always, we welcome your ideas and feedback. Thank you for continuing to engage with us—and for allowing us to be people you count on.
— Mark Elefante, Managing Partner
Insights for You
Empowering the Next Generation in Family Giving
Why does engaging the next generation matter? Family philanthropy isn’t only about deploying financial capital—it’s about stewarding values, purpose, and relationships over time and creating shared ownership across generations. Engaging younger family members gives them a voice and a sense of responsibility, helping them understand what is involved and how to make it feel a part of their world. This article shares practical steps for getting started.
Options for Funding a Grandchild’s Education
Helping a grandchild pay for school can be a meaningful way to support their future while also giving grandparents an opportunity to pass on wealth in a tax-efficient way. From outright gifts to loans, there are many ways to contribute. In this article, we explore three options that offer both tax and estate planning advantages: making direct tuition payments, opening a 529 plan, and utilizing a minor’s trust—helping you weigh the pros and cons.
A Practical Guide to Choosing a Personal Representative
Selecting a Personal Representative can be one of the most significant decisions you make in the estate planning process. However, many people are unaware of the Personal Representative's role. This article explores key responsibilities and highlights the factors—such as organization, family dynamics, and timing—that should guide your decision.
A Market Update from Hemenway Trust Company: April 2026
We are sharing this Market Update from the investment professionals at Hemenway Trust Company, a New Hampshire based private trust company. Continue reading to learn more about the investment team's perspective on forces shaping today's markets, the impact of AI, interest rates, and their outlook on what's to come.
Tax Corner
Is that IRS Notice a Scam?
Did you get a CP53E notice from the IRS asking you to provide your bank account? The Taxpayer Advocate Service (TAS) has issued a warning about fraudulent notices. CP53E notices are issued when you are due a refund and the bank account information on your tax return was missing or incorrect. If your notice asks you to submit your account information by email, text, or phone—it's a scam. TAS also warns about using QR codes that may take you to malicious websites. When in doubt, go directly to IRS.gov or contact your H&B Trustee or tax preparer.
Learn more about CP53E notices and how to keep your tax information safe.
Watch List
We are always monitoring legal, regulatory, and policy developments that could impact you. Here is one we’re keeping an eye on.
MA State Income Tax Ballot Question
The Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court heard arguments on a lawsuit challenging a proposed ballot question to change the MA state income tax from 5% to 4%.
Rooted in Our Community
It's Personal
Since the firm's founding more than 160 years ago, we've prioritized contributing and engaging within the community. Here are a few places we have sought to build connections and support others. We welcome your suggestions and collaboration.
Sweating for Good
In May, a team from H&B rocked the stairs at Harvard Stadium for the Positive Tracks Stadium Summit!
Sharing Ideas and Making Connections
A group from H&B joined colleagues and judges at the Massachusetts Bar Association’s 13th Annual Probate Law Conference—the largest gathering of probate practitioners in the Commonwealth.
Firm News
News
Mark Elefante Named Top 2026 Managing Partner by Massachusetts Lawyers Weekly
News
Michael Puzo Re-elected as Hingham Town Moderator
News
Brad Bedingfield Named “Go To Taxation Lawyer” by Massachusetts Lawyers Weekly
Celebrating Summer - Adjustment to Office Hours
In recognition of the hard work and commitment of our employees, the firm will be adjusting our August schedule to allow some extra time to appreciate summer. Beginning Friday, August 7th and for each Friday through August 28th, our office will close at 3:00 pm. Full-day Friday hours will resume in September.
Spotlight: America's 250th Celebration
As we mark the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, we celebrate the generations that have shaped our nation and share events that bring people of all ages together.
July 11 – 16
Sail Boston 2026, Boston Harbor
Sail Boston 2026 is a world-class maritime celebration that will bring together crews, cadets, and visitors from all over the world for an unforgettable experience – from the Meet Boston Parade of Sail on July 11 to ship boarding opportunities and two fireworks displays (July 11 and 15).
Ongoing
Hingham Heritage Museum – Witness: Hingham in the Age of Revolution, Hingham, MA
This exhibit explores how one New England town experienced the ideas, contradictions, and upheavals of the American Revolution. Through the lives of Hingham’s residents – white and Black, free and enslaved – this immersive new exhibit traces the ups & downs forging of a nation.
Imagined Nation, Boston Athenaeum
Marking the 250th anniversary of the United States, Imagined Nation invites visitors to explore how artists, writers, and printers have imagined the country’s future from its founding to the present. The exhibit includes sculpture, paintings, prints, books, a catechism, maps, a poster, pamphlets, a political cartoon, and periodicals.
Topics you want covered?
If there are areas you want to hear more about, or have us cover in future issues, please let us know. At work or in personal matters, life always has its moments—and we are here to help as well as plan accordingly.
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