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Question
if i donate money to a company in my will, who pays taxes when i die?
AI accountant’s answer:
When you leave money to a company as a bequest in your will, the tax implications will mostly depend on the type of company receiving the donation and the estate tax laws applicable to your estate.
If the company is a qualified charitable organization (e.g., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization), the bequest will typically be tax-deductible for estate tax purposes. This means that your estate would receive an estate tax deduction for the amount of the charitable bequest, potentially lowering the overall estate tax liability. In this case, there generally wouldn't be any taxes due on the donation, as charitable donations are exempt from taxes for both the donor and the recipient organization.
On the other hand, if you leave money to a for-profit company, it's usually not considered a charitable donation, and there wouldn't be any tax benefits for your estate. The estate tax liability would be calculated based on the value of your estate, including the bequest to the company. If your estate exceeds the estate tax exclusion amount ($12.06 million in 2022), your estate would owe taxes on the amount exceeding the exclusion. The company receiving the bequest would not typically pay taxes on the inherited amount, as it is not considered income for tax purposes.
Keep in mind, though, that tax laws are complex and can vary depending on the specifics of your situation. It's advisable to consult with an experienced estate planning attorney or tax professional to ensure that your will and any bequests are structured optimally based on your specific circumstances.
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