Wealth Taxation
Wealth taxation is a complex and diverse field, touching on many aspects of the financial lives of individuals and families. Whether you’re talking about a gift, an inheritance or simply managing your estate during your lifetime, it’s crucial to understand the tax implications.
What is wealth taxation?
Wealth taxation refers to all the tax rules applicable to the assets a person owns. This includes taxes on income generated by these assets, such as rents or dividends, but also taxes on gratuitous or onerous transfers, such as gifts and inheritances. What’s more, some assets are subject to specific taxes depending on their nature, such as real estate with theproperty wealth tax (IFI).
Taxes on wealth
Property wealth tax (IFI)
TheIFI is an annual tax levied on taxpayers whose net real estate assets exceed 1.3 million euros. It replaced the former Impôt de Solidarité sur la Fortune (ISF), and applies to real estate assets not allocated to the taxpayer’s professional activity.
Gift and inheritance tax
Wealth transfers by gift or inheritance are also subject to taxation. The tax rules on gifts and inheritance are designed to tax the assets transferred, with allowances and rates varying according to the relationship between the donor (or deceased) and the beneficiary.
Income tax on wealth
Income generated by assets, whether rental income or income from marketable securities, is subject to income tax. It’s important to declare this income correctly, and to understand how the different tax brackets work.
Asset management and tax optimization
Tax exemption schemes
There are a number of ways to reduce wealth tax. For example, investing in rental property under certain conditions can entitle you to tax reductions (Pinel law, etc.). Similarly, certain tax niches exist to encourage investment in SMEs or works of art.
Transmission strategies
To minimize inheritance tax, it is advisable to prepare for the transfer of assets during your lifetime, for example by making shared gifts or taking out life insurance policies, which offer advantageous tax arrangements.
Frequently asked questions
Here is a list of frequently asked questions about estate taxation.
What is the IFI scale?
The IFI scale is progressive, ranging from 0.50% for net taxable assets over €800,000 to 1.5% for assets over €10,000,000.
How do inheritance tax allowances work?
Inheritance tax is calculated after application of an allowance, the amount of which varies according to the relationship to the deceased. For example, in the direct line (children, parents), the allowance is €100,000 per child.
What are the advantages of life insurance for inheritance purposes?
Life insurance enables capital to be passed on to a designated beneficiary outside the estate, with tax allowances and a more attractive flat-rate withholding tax after a certain number of years.
Are French tax residents taxed on their worldwide assets?
Yes, French tax residents are taxed on their worldwide wealth. However, international treaties may apply to avoid double taxation.
In conclusion, tax management of wealth requires in-depth knowledge of the various taxes applicable, as well as of possible optimization strategies. It is advisable to consult an expert such as a tax lawyer for a personalized analysis tailored to your specific situation.