Today, Nicole debunks the most viral myths about inheritance and gift taxes, and walks you through exactly how these taxes work, when they actually kick in, and the totally legal strategies wealthy families use to pass on as much as possible to their heirs.

Nicole breaks down the difference between gift tax, estate tax, and inheritance tax; explains the $19,000 annual gift exclusion and the $15 million lifetime exemption; and covers the states that will still come after you even when the IRS won't. Then she gets into the tools the ultra-wealthy use, like irrevocable trusts and Family Limited Partnerships, to legally minimize what they owe. Plus, she shares one simple, free move that anyone can make right now to protect their family's inheritance… no lawyer required.

Check out Nicole’s financial literacy course The Money School 

Find a Financial Advisor or Financial Coach from Nicole’s company Private Wealth Collective

Watch video clips from the pod on Money Rehab’s Instagram and Nicole Lapin’s Instagram

Here's what Nicole covers today: 

00:00 Are You Ready for Some Money Rehab? 

00:18 Why TikTok's Inheritance Advice Is Wrong 

00:53 Gift Tax 101: The $19,000 Annual Exclusion 

02:24 Gift Splitting for Married Couples 

02:48 The $15 Million Lifetime Exemption Explained 

04:21 Estate Tax vs. Inheritance Tax: What's the Difference? 

05:25 Which States Have Inheritance Tax? 

05:47 How the Wealthy Minimize Estate Taxes 06:09 Irrevocable Trusts Explained 

06:51 Family Limited Partnerships Explained 

07:43 The IRS Isn't Out to Get You — But It Won't Help You Either 

08:04 Tip You Can Take Straight to the Bank

All investing involves the risk of loss, including loss of principal. This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or legal advice. Always do your own research and consult a licensed financial advisor before making any financial decisions or investments.