Step-Up in Basis

Definition

Step-Up in Basis is a tax concept that adjusts the value of an asset when it is passed on due to inheritance. The term refers to the readjustment of the value or ‘basis’ of the asset to its current market value at the time of the owner’s death, rather than its original purchase price. This adjustment can potentially reduce capital gains tax owed by the inheritor when they later sell the asset.

Phonetic

The phonetics for the keyword “Step-Up in Basis” is /stɛp ʌp ɪn ˈbeɪsɪs/.

Key Takeaways

1. Removes Capital Gain: The “Step-Up in Basis” refers to the readjustment of the value of an appreciated asset for tax purposes upon inheritance. The higher market value of the asset at the time of inheritance is considered for tax purposes instead of the original purchase cost. This eliminates any capital gains that would have otherwise occurred.
2. Tax Savings: It can result in significant tax savings for the inheritor. When the asset is sold, the tax is due only on the gain since the decedent’s death – not since the decedent’s original purchase. This step-up in basis rule can save inheritors a lot of money in capital gains tax.
3. Applicability: This principle applies to property passed to a beneficiary in a will, but may not apply to all property inherited by other means or in other circumstances, such as retirement accounts. Also, it mostly benefits those in higher income tax brackets and those who inherit highly appreciated property.

Importance

The term “Step-Up in Basis” is vital in business and finance as it’s linked directly to taxation and could significantly impact the tax obligations of an individual who inherits an asset. A “step-up” in basis readjusts the value of an inherited asset for tax purposes based upon its market value at the time of the owner’s death, not the asset’s original purchase price. This adjustment can significantly reduce capital gains tax owed by the heir if they sell the asset because capital gain or loss is determined by the difference between the asset’s sales price and the seller’s basis (which is now stepped-up). Therefore, understanding of the “Step-Up in Basis” may lead to significant potential tax savings.

Explanation

Step-Up in Basis is a key instrument used to minimize the potential tax liabilities linked to the increase in value of an asset, over the period it was held by an individual prior to being transferred. Essentially, it adjusts the value, or ‘basis’ , of an asset for tax purposes upon the transfer to a new owner, commonly due to inheritance. The purpose of this step-up is to reflect market appreciation and avoid the tremendous tax burden that would occur if the asset were treated as though no value increase had occurred.For instance, if an individual inherits property that has appreciated considerably over the years, taxing it on the basis of the original purchase price would result in a long-term capital gain that could be extremely high, thereby leading to a hefty tax imposition. Here, step-up basis becomes vital, as it readjusts the value of the assets for the beneficiary, basing it off the market value at the time of the original owner’s death. This effectively reduces the amount of tax the beneficiary will be liable for when they decide to sell the asset.

Examples

1. Inheritance of Property: One of the most common examples of step-up in basis is in the case of inherited property. Imagine a person ‘A’ bought a house for $100,000 (his cost basis). At the time of his death, the market value of the house is $200,000, which becomes the new cost basis for the heir ‘B’. This means ‘B’ has a step-up in basis from $100,000 to $200,000. If ‘B’ sells the house for $250,000, he would only be liable to pay capital gains tax on $50,000 instead of $150,000, thanks to the step-up in basis.2. Stock Investments: Another example could be with stocks. If a woman buys 100 shares at $10 each, her basis in the stock investment is $1,000. If she holds onto the stock for several years and the value of each share rises to $20 by the time of her death, the basis is stepped up to $2,000 for her heir who inherits the stocks. In this case, the step-up in basis could help the heirs avoid a $1,000 capital gain when they sell the stocks.3. Gifted Assets: This case happens when a person receives a gift where the market value of the gift is higher at the time of receiving than it was when the original owner purchased it. If person ‘X’ purchased a piece of art for $1,500 and gifted it to person ‘Y’ when its market value was $4,000, person ‘Y’ receives a step-up in basis to $4,000. If person ‘Y’ sells the art piece for $6,000, he will only be liable to pay capital gains tax on $2,000. It’s important to note that tax laws are complex and can change, and the above examples should be used only for a general understanding. For advice on specific cases, it’s recommended that a tax professional or a financial advisor be consulted.

Frequently Asked Questions(FAQ)

Related Finance Terms

• Capital Gains Tax: Tax on the profit from the sale of an asset, usually investments like stocks or real estate. This tax is often impacted by a step-up in basis.
• Cost Basis: The original value or cost of an asset for tax purposes, which is used to determine capital gains or losses. The cost basis ‘steps up’ to the market value upon inheritance.
• Inheritance: The act of passing on assets upon one’s death. A step-up in basis typically occurs when assets are inherited.
• Asset Appreciation: This refers to the increase in the value of an asset over time. A step-up in basis can reduce the capital gain that is linked to the appreciation of an asset.
• Estate Tax: This is a tax on an estate or the total value of money and property that an individual has left behind after their death. A step-up in basis can affect the overall value of the estate and hence, the amount of estate tax that is due.

Sources for More Information

• Investopedia
• The Motley Fool
• TurboTax by Intuit
• Charles Schwab