Sometimes it is possible to shift income within a family from someone in a higher tax bracket to someone in a lower bracket. This is difficult with children under 14 since their unearned income (except for the first $1600) is taxed at their parent’s tax rates. However, not all children are under 14.

Basically income is split by giving property to children.

Thereafter the income from it belongs to the children. Interests in family businesses or farms are ideal. Gifts of cash work too if available. Employing your children also is a good way to shift income to them. However, they must actually work and the pay cannot exceed a reasonable amount for what they do.

For Chicago Income Splitting contact an experienced will, trusts and estate planning lawyer, Don Thompson.

Visit Don’s Estate Planning Glossary to learn more.