Determining the “fair market value” of an asset for estate or gift purposes can be a daunting task, depending upon the nature of the asset to be valued. While ‘value’ can seem like such a simple concept, the devil is in the details. Further, with the highest federal gift and estate tax exemption amounts in history and the impending sunset of the high exemptions in 2026, clients are increasingly interested in making lifetime gifts where valuation is a key concern.
This program explores issues in asset valuation for both estate and gift tax purposes. The panel of experts explains the basic valuation rules under the code, including when various types of valuation rules can/must be used and valuation reporting requirements for estate and gift tax purposes. The panel also analyzes the intersection between gift, estate, and income taxes. Should a gift be made during lifetime or at death? Should alternate valuation be elected on an estate tax return? What types of discounts are available and when should they be used? Finally, the panelists review related recent IRS authority and caselaw on valuation issues.