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February 21, 2011
Death and Taxes, By the Numbers

Find out how to pass on financial gifts while you're still around – without triggering the federal gift tax.

Transcript

You may not be sitting on a mountain of money, but chances are you've stashed away a little something. And like most of us, you probably have someone in your life who could use a little financial help by getting some of their inheritance early. And you can make this happen, tax-free--if you remember these two numbers: $13,000 and $5 million.

$13,000. That's how much you can give to anyone, every year. Tax-free. Double that to $26,000 if you and your spouse give together. On top of these $13,000 annual gifts, you have an extra $5 million you can give away tax-free in your lifetime.

Bottom line: Don't wait until you're dead to begin sharing your money. It will be better for you, your heirs and everyone's tax bill.

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