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TransUnion Insights: Smart Strategies for Minimizing Capital Gains Tax with Asset Transfers to Parents

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Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for TransUnion TransUnion utilizes various healthcare providers for its employee health benefits, but specific details about the primary provider may vary by state and plan. Typically, large corporations like TransUnion partner with recognized insurance carriers to offer comprehensive health coverage, which often includes options from major players in the industry. Potential Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026 As we look ahead to 2026, healthcare costs are expected to rise significantly, creating challenges for both employers and employees at TransUnion. Experts predict that heightened medical expenses combined with the expiration of enhanced federal subsidies could lead to skyrocketing premiums in the Affordable Care Act marketplace, with some shareholders experiencing increases exceeding 60%. This situation may compel employers to reconsider how they manage health benefits, potentially requiring workers to shoulder a larger share of medical expenses, thereby affecting household budgets and overall healthcare affordability for many. Click here to learn more

When TransUnion employees sell appreciated assets such as stocks or real estate, they might face significant capital gains taxes. However, an effective tax reduction strategy known as an upstream transfer can be used. This involves transferring these assets to one's parents and later reclaiming them, potentially lowering the taxable amount. This method proves especially beneficial for those with substantial wealth, as it can reduce capital gains and potentially double the amount that their children inherit without triggering estate taxes. Here's a detailed analysis of how upstream transfers work, their benefits, and the associated risks.

Understanding Upstream Transfers

For TransUnion employees who have seen a significant increase in the value of their assets over time, transferring these assets can result in hefty capital gains taxes. In the United States, capital gains tax is calculated based on the difference between the sale price of an asset and its original purchase price (known as the cost basis). Long-term capital gains tax can be as high as 23.8%, including the net investment income tax.  (Source: IRS - Capital Gains Tax Rates)

Upstream transfers benefit from a tax exemption that allows for a step-up in basis upon inheritance. This means that when an individual inherits an asset, its cost basis is adjusted to its market value at the time of the decedent’s death. This adjustment can significantly reduce the taxable amount on any capital gains when the asset is sold.  (Source: IRS - Inherited Property Basis)

For instance, consider a TransUnion employee who holds stock that has appreciated by $1 million since purchase. If sold, they would face about $238,000 in taxes at a 23.8% rate. However, by transferring the stock to their parents and reclaiming it after their demise, the employee would only be taxed on any appreciation that occurs after their parents' death, potentially minimizing capital gains tax liabilities.

Tax Concerns and Estate Planning Advantages

One major advantage of upstream planning for TransUnion employees is its ability to reduce or eliminate capital gains taxes. However, this strategy also offers significant estate planning benefits. The current estate tax exemption is set at $13.61 million per individual (or $27.22 million for married couples), allowing individuals to transfer or acquire assets up to this threshold without incurring estate taxes.  (Source: IRS - Estate Tax Exemption Limits)

Wealthy families can use additional transfers to reduce estate tax deductions. By transferring their assets to parents who have not yet used their tax exemption, families can preserve more wealth from estate taxes. The popularity of asset transfers has increased since the federal estate tax exemption status was introduced by the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017. However, this increased exemption is scheduled to expire at the end of 2025 unless extended by Congress, prompting many to consider this strategy before the exemption amount decreases.  (Source: Tax Cuts and Jobs Act - IRS Summary)

Essential Details and Risks

While upstream transfers are helpful for tax reduction, they also involve risks. A primary concern is the potential loss of control over the assets when transferred to parents. In most cases, parents have the decision-making power regarding their assets, including their transfer or sale during their lifetime. This setup allows parents to decide to share the estate with other successors, such as a future spouse or other children. Moreover, parents’ creditors could claim the assets, complicating the situation further.

Additionally, family dynamics play a crucial role in the success of upstream planning. The involvement of multiple family members, including siblings and spouses, can lead to conflicts and disagreements. For example, parents might alter their estate plan to favor one child, even if it was another who originally provided the assets. Open and transparent communication among all parties is essential to minimize the potential for family conflict.

Timing and Legal Considerations

Timing is another critical factor in upstream transfers. Typically, these transfers are most effective when parents are older or have limited longevity. The strategy is usually recommended when parents are within their last seven years of life and are not expected to live beyond five years. However, if parents pass away within a year after the asset transfer, the basis step-up is disallowed, undermining one of the strategy’s main benefits.  (Source: IRS - Step-Up in Basis Rules)

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Furthermore, the value of transferred assets can fluctuate over time, as can the estate tax exemption. If assets significantly appreciate after the transfer or if the estate tax deduction is reduced, an unexpected tax liability could occur for the family. This underscores the importance of a rigorous plan and ongoing monitoring of the situation to keep the transfer tax-efficient.

In Conclusion

Future transfers offer an effective strategy for reducing tax liabilities on capital gains and enhancing wealth transmission to future generations. However, this method requires careful consideration of the legal, financial, and family dynamics involved. Wealthy individuals, including those at TransUnion considering an upstream plan, should consult with experienced estate planning professionals to determine if this strategy aligns with their overall financial goals and family circumstances. Proper planning and implementation can make upstream transfers a valuable tool in a comprehensive tax and estate planning strategy.

What is the primary purpose of TransUnion's 401(k) Savings Plan?

The primary purpose of TransUnion's 401(k) Savings Plan is to help employees save for retirement by allowing them to contribute a portion of their salary on a pre-tax or after-tax basis.

How can TransUnion employees enroll in the 401(k) Savings Plan?

TransUnion employees can enroll in the 401(k) Savings Plan by completing the online enrollment process through the company's benefits portal during the enrollment period.

Does TransUnion offer a company match for contributions made to the 401(k) Savings Plan?

Yes, TransUnion offers a company match for employee contributions to the 401(k) Savings Plan, helping employees maximize their retirement savings.

What are the eligibility requirements for TransUnion's 401(k) Savings Plan?

To be eligible for TransUnion's 401(k) Savings Plan, employees must be at least 21 years old and have completed a specified period of service with the company.

What types of investment options are available in TransUnion's 401(k) Savings Plan?

TransUnion's 401(k) Savings Plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and other investment vehicles to suit different risk tolerances.

Can TransUnion employees take loans against their 401(k) Savings Plan balance?

Yes, TransUnion allows employees to take loans against their 401(k) Savings Plan balance, subject to certain terms and conditions.

How often can TransUnion employees change their contribution amounts to the 401(k) Savings Plan?

TransUnion employees can change their contribution amounts to the 401(k) Savings Plan at any time, allowing for flexibility in their savings strategy.

What happens to TransUnion employees' 401(k) Savings Plan accounts if they leave the company?

If TransUnion employees leave the company, they have several options regarding their 401(k) Savings Plan accounts, including rolling over the balance to another retirement account or withdrawing the funds.

Are there any fees associated with TransUnion's 401(k) Savings Plan?

Yes, TransUnion's 401(k) Savings Plan may have administrative fees and investment-related expenses, which are disclosed in the plan documents.

How does TransUnion ensure employees are informed about their 401(k) Savings Plan options?

TransUnion provides employees with educational resources, workshops, and access to financial advisors to help them understand their 401(k) Savings Plan options.

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