What should a donor do if they want to make a taxable gift?

When a donor wishes to make a taxable gift, they need to comply with IRS regulations, which require the filing of Form 709, also known as the United States Gift (and Generation-Skipping Transfer) Tax Return. This form is essential for reporting any gifts that exceed the annual exclusion amount, which, for many years, has been $15,000 per recipient.

Filing this form ensures that the IRS is aware of the gift, and it allows the donor to track their cumulative gifts over their lifetime against the lifetime gift and estate tax exemption. If the donor’s gifts exceed this exemption, it could potentially lead to a tax liability, making it essential to report them accurately.

Other options, such as simply informing the recipient, waiting until the end of the year, or taking no action at all, do not fulfill the legal requirements for reporting taxable gifts. They may lead to issues such as missed tax obligations or penalties, highlighting the importance of adhering to the appropriate filing procedures. Thus, completing and submitting Form 709 is a necessary step for a donor making a taxable gift.