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Navigating the Generation-Skipping Transfer Tax for Jones Lang LaSalle Families

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'Thoughtful multigenerational planning can help Jones Lang LaSalle employees navigate GSTT considerations more effectively, making it an essential part of preparing families for long-term financial transitions.' -- Paul Bergeron, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement.

'Carefully structuring multigenerational wealth transfers can help Jones Lang LaSalle employees stay aligned with GSTT rules and should be considered when discussing long-term family planning priorities.' -- Tyson Mavar, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement.

In this article, we will discuss:

Key concepts behind the generation-skipping transfer tax (GSTT).
Common exemptions and exclusions that may lessen transfer tax exposure.
Planning methods that can help families pass wealth across generations.

Important Takeaways on How to Transfer Wealth Across Generations

The generation-skipping transfer tax (GSTT) is relevant for any Jones Lang LaSalle employees transferring wealth to grandchildren or other individuals that skip over your children's generation.

Both GSTT and gift or estate taxes may apply when transferring assets to heirs more than one generation below the transferor.

Exemptions may lower transfer tax liability if planning is structured thoughtfully.

Federal gift and estate taxes—applicable to transfers during life or at death—are familiar to many Jones Lang LaSalle employees. However, when assets move to people more than one generation below the transferor, such as a gift from a grandparent to a grandchild, the federal generation-skipping transfer tax (GSTT) may also apply.

Generation-Skipping Transfer Tax: What Is It?

Transfers to “skip persons,” those more than one generation below the transferor or more than 37½ years younger, are subject to the GSTT. This federal tax applies in addition to any federal gift or estate tax due and equals the highest federal gift and estate tax rate in effect—a flat rate of 40%—which is relevant for Jones Lang LaSalle employees engaging in multigenerational planning.

The GSTT was introduced in 1976 to address concerns that affluent families could shift assets in ways that bypassed estate taxes at each generational level. ¹

Lifetime Exemptions and Gift Tax Exclusions

Transfers made during life or at death to anyone other than a spouse or qualified charity may be subject to federal gift or estate tax. Key exclusions include several that may benefit Jones Lang LaSalle employees:

Annual gift tax exemption: In 2026, individuals may give up to $19,000 per recipient without incurring federal estate or gift tax. Couples may combine exclusions for a total of $38,000 per beneficiary. ² For example, a married couple with two children could give $76,000 total ($38,000 to each child) annually without gift tax.

Qualified transfers: Payments made directly to educational institutions for tuition or to medical providers for medical expenses are not considered taxable gifts. There is no dollar limit on these transfers. ¹

Lifetime unified exclusion: Individuals may transfer up to $13.99 million (or $27.98 million per married couple) during life or at death without federal gift or estate tax. ² Lifetime gifts reduce the remaining exclusion available at death.

Transfers exceeding these exclusions are taxed at the top federal estate and gift tax rate of 40%.

Exclusions & Exemptions from GSTT

The GSTT has rules similar to traditional gift tax laws, which can influence planning for Jones Lang LaSalle families:

- Grandparents may give up to $19,000 directly to a grandchild in 2026 without triggering gift tax or GSTT.
- Each individual has a $13.99 million lifetime GSTT exemption ($27.98 million per couple), though this exemption is not independent from estate or gift tax rules.
Transfers above exemption thresholds are subject to a 40% GSTT.
GSTT applies only at the federal level, although some states may impose their own estate or inheritance taxes.

When Does the GSTT Start to Apply?

The GSTT applies to three types of taxable events, all of which may arise in multigenerational planning for Jones Lang LaSalle families:

Direct skips: Transfers made directly to a skip person or to a trust for their exclusive benefit. The transferor or their estate pays the tax.

Taxable distributions: Distributions from a trust to a skip person. The beneficiary pays the tax.

Taxable terminations: Occur when a trust interest ends and only skip persons remain as beneficiaries. The trustee pays the tax.

GSTT Exemption Allocations

Transfers—outright or to a trust—may qualify for GSTT exemption as long as the exemption is properly allocated. Once allocated, all future growth on those trust assets is generally free from GSTT, a strategy Jones Lang LaSalle families may want to use.

For example, if a person contributed $10 million to an irrevocable trust for grandchildren in 2024 and allocated the GSTT exemption, and the trust later grew to $20 million, future distributions would not incur GSTT. ¹

Methods for Lowering GSTT

1. 529 Plan Contributions

Contributions to 529 college savings plans are treated as completed gifts, even though account owners can change the beneficiary. Grandparents may “superfund” a 529 plan with five years of annual exclusions at once—up to $95,000 per beneficiary in 2025 or $190,000 per beneficiary for a married couple filing jointly ³ —which may interest Jones Lang LaSalle retirees.

2. Dynasty Trusts

Dynasty trusts are irrevocable trusts designed to last across multiple generations. Some states allow long-term or perpetual trusts, while others limit trust duration under the “rule against perpetuities.” These trusts can combine GSTT planning with long-term asset preservation features and, when fully exempt from GSTT, future distributions or terminations can occur without additional GSTT ⁴ —an appealing option for extended family planning.

Concluding Remarks

Although GSTT planning can be complex, exemptions and structured transfers may help Jones Lang LaSalle employees reduce or eliminate federal taxes on wealth passed to grandchildren or other skip persons.

The Retirement Group can assist you with wealth transfer planning and retirement income strategies. Call our team at (800) 900-5867 for guidance.

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Articles you may find interesting:

Sources:

1. Fidelity Investments. “Understanding the Generation-Skipping Transfer Tax.” Fidelity , 3 Oct. 2025, www.fidelity.com/viewpoints/wealth-management/insights/generation-skipping-transfer-tax .

2. Internal Revenue Service. “ IRS releases tax inflation adjustments for tax year 2027 .” IRS.gov , 9 Oct. 2025.

3. Bendig, Erin. “How This 529 ‘Superfund’ Strategy Can Transform Your Estate Plan.” Kiplinger , 12 Sept. 2025, www.kiplinger.com/personal-finance/this-super-529-strategy-can-help-you-jumpstart-college-savings .

4. Investopedia. ' What Is a Dynasty Trust? ' by Will Kenton. 31 March 2025.

What is the 401(k) plan offered by Jones Lang LaSalle?

The 401(k) plan at Jones Lang LaSalle is a retirement savings plan that allows employees to save a portion of their salary on a pre-tax basis, helping them build a nest egg for retirement.

Does Jones Lang LaSalle match employee contributions to the 401(k) plan?

Yes, Jones Lang LaSalle offers a matching contribution to the 401(k) plan, which helps employees maximize their retirement savings.

How can employees at Jones Lang LaSalle enroll in the 401(k) plan?

Employees can enroll in the 401(k) plan at Jones Lang LaSalle by accessing the benefits portal or contacting the HR department for assistance.

What types of investment options are available in the Jones Lang LaSalle 401(k) plan?

The Jones Lang LaSalle 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and company stock.

When can employees at Jones Lang LaSalle start contributing to their 401(k) plan?

Employees at Jones Lang LaSalle can typically start contributing to their 401(k) plan after completing their initial eligibility period, which is outlined in the employee handbook.

Is there a vesting schedule for the employer match in the Jones Lang LaSalle 401(k) plan?

Yes, Jones Lang LaSalle has a vesting schedule for the employer match, which means employees must work for a certain period to fully own the matched contributions.

Can employees take loans against their 401(k) savings at Jones Lang LaSalle?

Yes, employees can take loans against their 401(k) savings at Jones Lang LaSalle, subject to specific terms and conditions outlined in the plan documents.

What happens to the 401(k) plan if an employee leaves Jones Lang LaSalle?

If an employee leaves Jones Lang LaSalle, they have several options for their 401(k) plan, including rolling it over to an IRA or a new employer's plan, or cashing it out.

How often can employees change their contribution rate to the Jones Lang LaSalle 401(k) plan?

Employees at Jones Lang LaSalle can change their contribution rate to the 401(k) plan at designated times throughout the year, as specified in the plan guidelines.

Are there any fees associated with the 401(k) plan at Jones Lang LaSalle?

Yes, there may be fees associated with the 401(k) plan at Jones Lang LaSalle, which are disclosed in the plan documents and can vary based on investment choices.

With the current political climate we are in it is important to keep up with current news and remain knowledgeable about your benefits.

Plan Name: Jones Lang LaSalle Employee Pension Plan Years of Service and Age Qualification: Employees typically need to complete a minimum number of years of service to qualify for the pension plan. The specific requirements can vary based on the plan’s terms. Pension Formula: The pension formula used by Jones Lang LaSalle is based on factors such as years of service, salary history, and age at retirement. The exact formula can be found in the pension plan documentation. Qualification for 401(k) Plan: Eligibility for the 401(k) plan generally includes all full-time employees who meet certain service and age requirements. 401(k) Plan Name: Jones Lang LaSalle 401(k) Plan

Layoffs and Restructuring: In early 2023, Jones Lang LaSalle (JLL) announced a significant restructuring plan, including the reduction of around 5% of its global workforce. This move was attributed to the company's strategy to streamline operations and adapt to changing market conditions. The reduction affects various departments, particularly those in support functions. It’s important to follow this news given the current economic climate, as companies are reassessing their structures amid economic uncertainty and shifting investment priorities. Understanding these changes can provide insights into broader market trends and potential impacts on employee benefits and job security. Changes to Benefits and Retirement Plans: In mid-2023, JLL also updated its employee benefits, including modifications to its pension and 401(k) plans. The company reduced its matching contributions to 401(k) plans and revised its pension plan options to align with its new business strategy and cost management efforts. These changes come as part of JLL's broader efforts to optimize financial performance amid fluctuating economic conditions. Monitoring these adjustments is crucial as they reflect broader trends in corporate benefits adjustments, influenced by tax and investment factors, and can impact employee retirement planning and financial security.

Stock Options: Jones Lang LaSalle (JLL) offered stock options primarily to senior executives and high-level employees in 2022. The company used stock options to align executives' interests with shareholders' interests. JLL’s stock options were generally tied to performance metrics and long-term strategic goals. RSUs: In 2022, Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) at Jones Lang LaSalle (JLL) were granted to employees across various levels, including middle management and above. RSUs served as a retention tool and were often granted based on performance evaluations and tenure. JLL utilized RSUs to provide employees with ownership stakes in the company, typically vesting over a period of time.

Health Benefits Information: JLL provides a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision coverage. They also offer health savings accounts (HSAs) and flexible spending accounts (FSAs). Specific details for 2022-2024 can be found in the benefits section of their career page or employee handbook, though exact details may vary based on location and employment status. Acronyms and Terms: HSAs (Health Savings Accounts), FSAs (Flexible Spending Accounts), PPO (Preferred Provider Organization), HMO (Health Maintenance Organization).