Keystone Law Firm - September 2023

480-418-1776 KEYSTONELAWFIRM.COM

PRST STD US POSTAGE PAID BOISE, ID PERMIT 411

2701 W. QUEEN CREEK RD., #3 CHANDLER, AZ 85248

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

Join Our Intentional Living Summits for Support and Connection

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Want to Protect Your Assets? Avoid These Inclusions in Your Will

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Walnut and Blue Cheese Tomato Salad

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Improve Your Pet’s Health With These Kibble-Enhancing Tips

Step-Up in Basis Will Save You Tax Dollars

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USE THIS ESTATE PLANNING LOOPHOLE TO SAVE Don’t Pay More Capital Gains Tax Than You Should!

two decades, the home’s appreciation can easily be hundreds of thousands of dollars. As a result, they could be left with little profit after forking over the capital gains tax. Meanwhile, if your child were to inherit the property after your passing, they would only need to pay the capital gains tax from the market value at the time of your death instead of when it was initially purchased. The basis of the asset’s value is stepping up in time to adjust the appreciation value. That’s why it’s called a step-up in basis! The result? Your child will save on expensive taxes and start building wealth with this property’s profit.

There are plenty of estate planning maneuvers, but when done without the guidance of an attorney, these techniques may end up costing your family a fortune. One action that can do more harm than good is transferring your assets into your children’s names. While it might seem like you’re helping them, they could miss out on a significant tax break: step-up in basis.

What is the step-up in basis loophole? When you want to transfer a physical property or stocks into your child’s name, they will often need to pay a substantial capital gains tax. The value of these assets increases over time, and

when you transfer them to your child, they will have to pay tax on all the appreciation, or the increase in value, from when you first purchased the property to the sale date.

Instead, try putting your assets in a living trust. So, how can your child take advantage of the step-up in basis? You can put your assets in a living trust and add them as a beneficiary. Instead of being considered an owner, your child will only inherit your estate after your death. While a living trust has plenty of benefits, you should always consult an attorney to understand if this is the right move for you, your specific assets, and your children.

Regarding homes, the value can significantly increase over just a few decades. After

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