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Message:: [QUOTE="Grey Ghost, post: 838871, member: 22094"]I wrote a big long post on this and guess I got timed out cause its gone and would not let me post it.   Bottom line: For 2010 there is NOT an estate tax (yet).  If Congress does not act the 2001 rates will return in 2011, which are a $1 million exemption (the estate will not owe tax if the value is $1 million or less), anything over $1 million is taxed at 55%. In contrast, in 2009, the exemption was $3.5 million and 45% rate over $3.5 million.  Double that for a couple.   This is a political hot potato and some change is likely soon. As to avoiding the tax, spend it, squander it, or give it away tax free at $13,000/year per person.  A person and their spouse can give $26,000 each year to a person.  If you include the son in law or daughter in law you get a total of  $52,000/year without tax every year, and if you need to give more there are the grandchildren. There are legal ways to avoid or limit the tax.  If you have significant assets or want your coin collection to go to a particular person hire a lawyer to make sure you have taken every step you can to protect yourself.  And do not rely upon CT for legal advice or estate planning.  Hire a professional.[/QUOTE]