Understanding Estate and Gift Taxes: Essential FAQs

At Goldberg & Goldberg, we recognize the importance of planning for the future and the significance of understanding the financial implications that come with it. Estate and gift taxes can be a complex matter, but our legal team is here to guide you through the process. Below are frequently asked questions related to estate and gift taxation. Should you need more personalized assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at (301) 654-5757 for a free consultation.

Will My Estate Be Subject to Federal Estate Tax After My Passing?

The vast majority of estates, over 99.5%, won’t be liable for federal estate taxes posthumously. Your estate will only be subjected to these taxes if the taxable value exceeds a certain amount in the millions of dollars. Assets transferred to your surviving spouse are typically exempt from this taxation if your spouse is a U.S. citizen. Additionally, charitable donations are not subject to estate taxes.

How Can I Avoid Federal Estate Taxes?

Numerous strategies can help reduce or even avoid federal estate taxes altogether:

• Annual Tax-Free Gifts: You can gift up to a certain amount per year per recipient without incurring gift tax. Paying for someone’s education or healthcare, or donating to charities can also avoid the gift tax, thereby potentially diminishing the eventual estate tax burden.
• Trusts: Certain types of trusts, such as AB trusts or “QTIP” Trusts, can be used to minimize estate taxes, though many couples may find these unnecessary due to the “portability” of spousal exemptions and sizable personal exemptions offered in recent years.
• Charitable Trusts: Significant contributions to tax-exempt charities through charitable trusts can lessen the estate tax load.
• Life Insurance Trusts: Establishing life insurance trusts can shift the value of life insurance proceeds out of your taxable estate, preserving more of your wealth for your beneficiaries.

Can I Just Give Away My Property to Avoid Estate Taxes?

The federal gift and estate tax operate as one collective entity. The same total exemption amount covers both gifts distributed while alive and property left posthumously. The exemption amount is periodically adjusted for inflation.

Most gifts under the annual exemption limit will not be taxed, while certain gifts, such as unlimited amounts to a U.S. citizen spouse or paying for education and medical expenses, are automatically exempt from the gift/estate tax.

What Are State-Level Estate Taxes?

It’s crucial to note that even if your estate doesn’t reach the federal tax threshold, state taxes might still apply:

• Estate Taxes: Certain states collect estate tax on estates that fall below the federal taxable limit, often at a rate considerably lower than federal taxes.
• Inheritance Taxes: Some states levy an inheritance tax that varies depending on the relation to the deceased, with spouses and close relatives frequently enjoying lower rates or full exemption.

How to Minimize State Estate or Inheritance Taxes?

While it can be challenging to avoid state-level estate taxes, establishing legal residence in a state without such taxes might result in savings.

At Goldberg & Goldberg, we’re dedicated to helping you navigate through the intricate web of estate planning and tax law. Contact us now at (301) 654-5757 for your free consultation and let us help protect your financial legacy with sound legal strategies tailored to your unique situation.