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Money GirlAuthor: QuickAndDirtyTips.com
Laura Adams provides short and friendly personal finance, small business, real estate, and investing tips to help you live a richer life. Whether you're just starting out or are already a savvy investor, Money Girl's advice will point you in the right direction. Language: en Genres: Business, Entrepreneurship, Investing Contact email: Get it Feed URL: Get it iTunes ID: Get it |
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The Gifting Tax Guide: How to Give Money to Family Tax-Free
Episode 1001
Friday, 6 March, 2026
1001. On this Finance Friday, I’m clearing up the massive confusion surrounding "gift taxes." Many people are terrified to help their loved ones because they fear a surprise tax bill, but the reality is that the thresholds are much higher than you think. Whether you're helping with a down payment, paying for a grandchild’s tuition, or simply sharing your wealth while you're around to see them enjoy it, there are a few "golden rules" you need to know to stay on the right side of the IRS. In this episode, we discuss: The 2026 Limits: Why you can likely give away millions without ever owing a penny in gift tax. The Annual vs. Lifetime Exclusion: How to use the $19,000 annual limit to your advantage. The "Direct Payment" Loophole: How to pay for medical or tuition bills without it counting as a gift. The Inheritance Trap: Why gifting a house or stocks now might actually cost your children more in taxes later than waiting for a "step-up in basis." IRS Form 709: When you actually need to file it (and why it’s not as scary as it sounds). Find a transcript here. Have a money question? Send an email to money@quickanddirtytips.com or leave a voicemail at (302) 364-0308. Find Money Girl on Facebook and Twitter, or subscribe to the newsletter for more personal finance tips. Money Girl is a part of Quick and Dirty Tips. Links: https://www.quickanddirtytips.com/ https://www.quickanddirtytips.com/money-girl-newsletter https://www.facebook.com/MoneyGirlQDT
