Date:  Thu, 24 Aug 2006
From:  Mr. Webb

Dear Mr. Gray,

I am receiving a large inheritance from a Chinese relative who has recently passed away. The funds will be transferred to my bank account in America. What taxes will I have to pay to the American government? I was told by a lawyer in China that the taxes could be paid in China as opposed to paying to the US.

Thank you.
Mr. Webb

Answer

Date:  Wed, 06 Sep 2006

Hello Mr. Webb,

U.S. transfer taxes are generally imposed on the transferor (the decedent's estate). Unless your relative had stock of a US company, US bonds, real estate or a business in the US, US estate tax shouldn't apply. An inheritance is not subject to US income tax, except for income received after the decedent's death.

Check with a local tax advisor about state tax consequences of your inheritance.

Good luck!

Mike Gray

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