Intrafamily Loans Can Be a Smart Move to Boost Wealth

A man hands a woman a thick stack of cash, only their hands showing. — (Image credit: Getty Images)

In today’s dynamic financial landscape, affluent families are always on the lookout for astute strategies to help preserve wealth and minimize tax burdens. One strategy they might want to consider is an intrafamily loan. This type of loan can be a calculated financial maneuver that lets families transfer assets, attain flexibility and instill responsible money management for future generations.

In the realm of wealth transfer, intrafamily loans provide a means to pass on wealth to descendants while mitigating the impact of gift and estate taxes. By lending money within the family at favorable interest rates, this strategy ensures a more efficient asset transfer, minimizing the tax burden and preserving familial wealth.

In practical terms, intrafamily loans involve lending money to family members at interest rates lower than those available elsewhere. This straightforward concept, known as rate arbitrage, leverages the difference between the low interest charged within the family and the higher rates obtainable externally. This differential acts as a tax-efficient enhancement to the family's wealth, optimizing financial resources.

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Empowering future generations

Beyond financial transactions, intrafamily loans serve to empower the next generation with a financial advantage. Offering loans with favorable terms provides an opportunity for younger family members to establish financial independence responsibly. This approach is akin to providing them with the tools for sound money management and investment acumen, creating a legacy of prudent financial decision-making.

A notable feature of intrafamily loans is their flexibility. Whether financing educational pursuits, facilitating a first home purchase or supporting a family business venture, the terms are customizable. This flexibility ensures that the financial solution aligns with the unique needs and goals of the family, offering a personalized approach to wealth management.

Leveraging low-interest environments

Even though interest rates have marched up recently, in the overall scheme of things, they are rather modest. Consider that in 1981 the average 30-year mortgage rate was over 18%. According to a report from Business Insider, the average interest rate for a 30-year mortgage currently falls around 6.5%. That’s up from 3.38% back in 2020.

Although interest rates are not nearly as high as they were 30 years ago, they have nearly doubled in the last four years. Taking this into account, an intrafamily loan could help a young adult buy a house at a cheaper rate than what’s currently being offered through the bank.

Preserving family legacy

For those with significant family businesses or substantial assets, preserving their integrity during the wealth transfer process is paramount. Intrafamily loans offer a pragmatic approach, allowing for the transfer of assets while maintaining control. This ensures the perpetuation of the family legacy and the preservation of valuable assets.

Pitfalls of intrafamily loans

Intrafamily loans work great in some situations, but there are some pitfalls to be aware of. One obvious drawback is that there’s no credit requirement needed to qualify for an intrafamily loan. Thus, families could be taking a big risk when lending to another family member.

Another drawback is a lack of repayment structure and benefits for the borrower. Since the loan can be paid back in nontraditional ways, there are no repercussions for missing a payment. And since the family loan is not reported to credit bureaus, the borrower doesn’t have the option of improving their credit score by making payments on time.

Intrafamily loans can also put family relations in jeopardy. If the loan brings success to the family, they’ll likely grow closer. But if the loan goes awry due to a lack of payments, or a failed family business, that can drive a wedge between family members.

Intrafamily loans transcend mere fund transfers, embodying a strategic approach focused on tax efficiency, future financial empowerment and the preservation of familial uniqueness. This financial move is not just a loan; it’s an intentional step toward a financially stable and secure future.

Disclaimer

This article was written by and presents the views of our contributing adviser, not the Kiplinger editorial staff. You can check adviser records with the SEC or with FINRA.

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Derek Miser serves as Chief Managing Member at Miser Wealth Partners, LLC, located in Knoxville, Tenn., and Tellico Village, Tenn. Miser Wealth Partners delivers family office services to successful retirees and entrepreneurs nationwide and in Puerto Rico. He recently published his first book, "Golden Years, Greener Pockets." This guide to tax efficiency for retirees is an excellent read for anyone contemplating or already retired.