Hi Canie,

I'm going to pass this suggestion along to you and anyone else here who may one day inherit and have to pay taxes. Those in the family or relationship who will receive the inheritance need to buy a life insurance policy for the person who will "will" them the property based on the estimated inheritance taxes that will be due. If there is a couple, then you buy a policy where after the final survivor dies it pays the beneficiaries. This can be done as a one pay premium or by other payment methods. Life insurance is not taxable and is a terrific way to keep the inheritance together while still paying the estate taxes.

Living trusts are also another way to create a shelter and one does not have to be old to have one.

Petra