Every year the federal government decides how much of your estate isn’t subject to taxes when you die. This year, thanks to inflation, the 2021 estate tax exemption has increased to $11.7 million.

This means, when you pass away, any portion of your estate over $11.7 million is subject to the federal estate tax. A married couple has a combined exemption for 2021 of $23.4 million.

The estate tax isn’t a simple 40% on your taxable amount. The estate tax rate on anything exceeding $11.7 million is a progressive tax.  Specifically, 18% to 39% for the first $1 million, then a flat 40% for anything over that.

It’s worth noting the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act doubled the estate tax exemption in 2018.  This change came with an expiration date. In this case, on Jan. 1, 2026, the estate tax exemption is set to drop back to what it was before 2018: $5.6 million.

Without going too deep into President Biden’s proposed tax changes, he’s pushing for an individual taxation plan that would hit those with incomes above $400,00 hardest. The proposed top income tax rate would increase the present law’s 37% rate to 39.6%. According to the White House, this increase will affect only the top 1% of taxpayers. Further, his capital gains tax proposal would likely affect taxpayers whose incomes exceed $1 million.

So, what might these taxes look like for you going forward? If Biden’s tax plan to reduce the exemption to $3.5 million comes to fruition, consider offsetting your numbers by gifting earlier on in retirement or using life insurance as an estate planning tool.

Tax changes are inevitable, so now might be the perfect time to talk through some financial options and review your long-term plans. Taxes are complicated, so you’ll want some professional guidance. Contact us today at 336-448-1086.