Leaving an Inheritance? Is It Better to Give to Kids Now or Later?
Retirees should secure themselves first, and if you’re all set there, then consider a few other things, such as the impact on the kids and tax issues.


Flying off on a recent family vacation, I was sitting next to my 4-year-old and had my 8-month-old on my lap. Thank goodness it was a short flight! Before takeoff, as always, the flight attendant told us, “In the event of emergency, secure your own oxygen mask before helping your kids.” It’s a statement that we have become almost numb to, but my guess is, it would be hard to follow through on. When it comes to giving your kids their inheritance now or after you die, my advice is the same as the flight attendant’s: Make sure you secure yourself first. That is: Do you have enough money that you can afford to give it to your kids or anyone else?
The biggest unknown in this projection is undoubtedly long-term-care expenses. Most certified financial planners with a decent piece of software or calculator can answer this for you. Assuming you check this box, and there is enough to go around, consider the impact on your kids.
Will Giving an Inheritance Early Have a Positive Impact?
Money can be a rope or quicksand depending on the amount and the recipient. Think about what your kids have done in the past when they have received more money than they are used to. Did they use it to cover expenses? Did they invest it? Did they show up at the next family gathering in a nicer car? If your money went toward a flashy vehicle, you may want to reconsider.

Sign up for Kiplinger’s Free E-Newsletters
Profit and prosper with the best of expert advice on investing, taxes, retirement, personal finance and more - straight to your e-mail.
Profit and prosper with the best of expert advice - straight to your e-mail.
In all seriousness, the beneficiary of the funds often matters more than the amount or vehicle for the gift. This is one reason revocable trusts are such a popular estate planning tool. They allow you to control how and when the beneficiary spends their new money.
Consider the Kid’s Age at the Time of the Gift
Let’s say you’re 65 years old and you had twins at the age of 30. Your life expectancy is about 85. So, you are essentially deciding whether you should give money to your kids in the next 20 years, or in 20 years. In 20 years, your Millennial kids will be 55 and likely in their peak earnings years. Their kids will be graduating from college. They will be entering the period where the gap between their earnings and expenses is largest. Said differently, they don’t need the money then.
On the opposite end of the spectrum, when expenses may actually be larger than expenses, is the period when the kids are young. Childcare expenses paired with the possibility of only one working spouse means this may be the period of greatest financial need.
What About Taxes?
While your kids may benefit from your funds most during this period, it may not be the optimal time to give from a tax perspective. Due to the large gift tax exclusion, I would not worry about the gift tax when giving, unless your estate is larger than about $12 million. You should, however, consider capital gains and income taxes.
Sometimes we recommend giving stock to kids when they are in school and have very little income. That’s because there is a tax arbitrage opportunity. If you sell the stock, you’re likely to pay 15% in capital gains taxes. If someone in the lowest two income tax brackets sells the stock, there is no tax.
I know, I know, I haven’t gotten to the negative part. If you leave a stock at death in a non-retirement account, there is a “step-up” in basis. That means your child won’t have to pay any taxes on the gains accumulated during your lifetime. So, if you’re one of the lucky (maybe smart) ones who bought Apple stock in the ’90s, it’s probably best to leave those funds at death.
This step-up in basis applies to all capital assets, including real estate. It can be a powerful way to avoid large tax bills on investment properties and your home.
So, capacity to give has to come first. A serious talk about the impact is next. Then, put together an efficient plan to execute your wishes.
Get Kiplinger Today newsletter — free
Profit and prosper with the best of Kiplinger's advice on investing, taxes, retirement, personal finance and much more. Delivered daily. Enter your email in the box and click Sign Me Up.

After graduating from the University of Delaware and Georgetown University, I pursued a career in financial planning. At age 26, I earned my CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ certification. I also hold the IRS Enrolled Agent license, which allows for a unique approach to planning that can be beneficial to retirees and those selling their businesses, who are eager to minimize lifetime taxes and maximize income.
-
AI Goes To School
The Kiplinger Letter Artificial intelligence is rapidly heading to K-12 classrooms nationwide. Expect tech companies to cash in on the fast-emerging trend.
-
Where to Invest in an Uncertain Market
In an uncertain market, you can still pocket juicy payouts ranging from 4% to 14%, depending on risk.
-
Social Security Pop Quiz: Are You Among the 89% of Americans Who'd Fail?
Shockingly few people have any clue what their Social Security benefits could be. This financial adviser notes it's essential to understand that info and when it might be best to access your benefits.
-
Such Attractive Yields in High-Grade Munis Are Rare and May Not Last Long
According to this munis expert, the last time munis were this cheap was a brief period in 2023. If you kicked yourself for missing out then, you have a second chance now.
-
Financial Analyst Sees a Bright Present for Municipal Bond Investors
High-tax-bracket investors have an excellent opportunity to secure low-volatility, high-quality returns at yield levels rarely seen in over a decade.
-
I'm an Insurance Pro: How Not to Get Dumped by Your Insurance Agent
Your insurance agent or broker might show you the door if you do any of these five things. Being a good customer is about more than paying your bill on time.
-
Two Estate Planning Issues You Should Never Overlook
This estate planning attorney explains why proper asset titling and beneficiary designations make a big difference when it's time to transfer your wealth.
-
The Four D's That Could Force You to Sell Your Business
Business owners (or their heirs) can be rushed into a sale of their company if they haven't planned for a major change in circumstances — or the four D's.
-
The Three Retirement Tax Issues I Nag My Clients About
A financial professional highlights areas of tax planning that retirees should have on their radar as they finalize their retirement plan.
-
Do You Need Disability Insurance? Three Things to Know
Disability insurance can help replace some of your income during unexpected life events. Here are the basics, courtesy of a financial professional.