Jeff Bezos was recently highlighted in an article on YahooFinance by Dawn Alcott titled, “This State Has Zero Estate Taxes — How Bezos and 77 Other Billionaires Game the System”. The article discussed how Jeff Bezos recently purchased two side-by-side mansions, with a total value of $147 million, on Florida’s Indian Creek Island, also known as Billionaire Bunker island. The article also mentions that a reason Bezos may have made the move is because he owns the aerospace company Blue Origins and moving from Seattle to Miami puts him closer to the Space Coast, Cape Canaveral and Kennedy Space Center.
The article then goes on to speculate that another reason for the move may have been the fact that Florida does not have an estate or capital gains tax and notes Bezos’ former home of Seattle, Washington, enforces an estate tax ranging from 10% to 20% for estates worth $2.19 million or more. Plus, it has a 7% capital gains tax on earnings that exceed $250,000.
The article summarizes that most middle-class Americans do not need to worry about avoiding taxes on income over $2.19 million or over $250,000. That is correct, but it misses a key point important to many middle-class Americans.
Tax Savings for Middle-Class Families and Retirees
While billionaires like Jeff Bezos make headlines for their high-profile moves to Florida, the Sunshine State offers substantial benefits not just for the ultra-wealthy but also for middle-class families, particularly retirees. One of the most significant advantages is Florida’s lack of a state income tax, which can translate into substantial savings on retirement income sources.
In states like Minnesota and many other northern regions, income from IRAs, 401(k)s, Social Security Benefits and pensions are subject to state income taxes. However, by moving or establishing residency in Florida, retirees can potentially save thousands of dollars annually by avoiding these taxes altogether. This financial relief can be a game-changer for those living on fixed incomes, allowing them to stretch their hard-earned nest eggs further and enjoy a more comfortable retirement.
The Tax Savings for One Middle-Class Family
One family I worked with is a perfect example of how the income tax savings can make a significant impact. Prior to his passing, Barb’s dad asked her to take care of her mom, and for many years, Barb and her husband, Tom, did; at significant expense to them, right up to her mom’s passing. Barb was healthy, enjoyed her job and planned to work for a few more years to make up for it. However, when her company was sold and Tim developed some health issues, the two of them reconsidered their retirement timing.
Barb and Tim met with their financial advisor, who told them that if she retired now, Barb would need to continue working at least-part time to maintain their standard of living. Then they asked a question that changed everything for them, “What if we moved to Florida?” Barb’s sister and her husband lived there already and the move would be good for Tim’s health. The financial advisor ran the numbers and then told them, “If you were to move to Florida, not only will you be able to fully retire, you will have money to travel, including coming back to visit the grandkids whenever you want.”
So stay in Minnesota and continue to work, or move to Florida and be fully-retired in the sunshine? It was an easy decision for them.
Establishing Florida Residency for Tax Purposes
Now if you are considering moving to Florida, or perhaps you are one of the tens of thousands of people who have already done so, here’s where a bit of caution comes into play – becoming a Florida resident, and no longer having your old state treat you as a resident for tax purposes, isn’t as simple as 6 months-and-a-day or buying a condo and declaring “great day for rays” to the pool boy. There are a myriad of legal factors, presumptions, and tests that you have to meet. One of them, is the need to update your estate plan to Florida law.
Protecting Your Legacy with Customized Estate Planning
Beyond tax savings, Florida offers a favorable environment for comprehensive estate planning and asset protection strategies. By working with an experienced estate planning attorney, middle-class families can ensure their assets are safeguarded and their legacy is preserved for future generations.
One important consideration for estate planning in Florida is the use of a revocable trust instead of traditional wills. Revocable trusts can help avoid the costly and time-consuming probate process, particularly for those who own property in more than one state. This streamlined approach not only minimizes legal fees but also provides greater privacy and control over the distribution of assets.
Tailored Solutions for Your Unique Needs
Effective estate planning in Florida goes beyond boilerplate documents. Experienced attorneys understand the importance of crafting customized solutions that address each family’s unique circumstances and goals.
Whether it’s protecting assets from potential creditors, minimizing taxes, or ensuring your wishes are carried out precisely, a personalized estate plan can provide peace of mind and a secure future for your loved ones. By utilizing advanced strategies such as asset protection trusts and thoughtful planning for real estate, businesses, and investments, families can safeguard their hard-earned wealth for generations to come.
While the tax advantages and favorable laws in Florida may initially attract the ultra-wealthy, the benefits of relocating to the Sunshine State are not limited to billionaires. Middle-class families, especially retirees, can also reap substantial rewards by taking advantage of Florida’s tax-friendly environment and comprehensive estate planning opportunities. With the guidance of experienced professionals, families can maximize their assets, minimize tax burdens, and create a secure legacy for their loved ones.
If you would like to learn more about establishing residency for tax purposes in Florida, or would like help with your Minnesota or Florida estate plan, call our Florida office at (941) 909-4644 or our Minnetonka, Minnesota office at (763) 420-5087 today to schedule a consultation. Or, you can fill out the contact form on this page and a member of our team will contact you to schedule a consultation.
And if you are not yet ready to schedule a consultation and would like additional information, click here to register for our FREE online masterclass where we reveal insider strategies to help you save money with your will, trust, health care directive and more.
