inherited money

[lkroseto]

What can I do with money inherited from a parent? Do I have options other than paying taxes on the income stream it provides? Thanks.

[MarionH]

When it comes to inheritance, inherited funds are not considered taxable income on your federal tax return. However, some individual states impose inheritance taxes, so it’s important to check the specific tax laws in your state. For more information about inheritance taxes and estate planning at the state level, you can refer to this link: What Is the Inheritance Tax?.

After inheriting funds, if you decide to invest them, any earnings generated from those investments (such as interest, dividends, or capital gains) may be taxable. However, there are ways to minimize or avoid taxation on investment earnings by utilizing tax-advantaged options such as:

• Municipal Bonds: Interest income is typically tax-free at the federal level, and may also be tax-free at the state level.
• Roth IRAs: Earnings grow tax-free and withdrawals during retirement are tax-free, provided you meet the requirements for qualified withdrawals.
• 529 Plans: Earnings grow tax-free and withdrawals are tax-free when used for qualified education expenses.

For additional details on different types of investments and their tax consequences, visit: Do You Pay Taxes on Investments?.

@lkroseto 

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[lkroseto]

How much of my inheritance can i invest in a Roth acct? I am currently retired with a pension as my only income at this time.

[K M W]

There are several rules regarding how much can contribute to a Roth IRA, and one of those rules is that the contribution amount is limited to your "earned income".  As you are retired, and your current income comes from a pension, you would not be eligible to contribute to a Roth IRA, as pension income is not considered earned income.  Earned income with respect to IRA contributions would be defined as income from a W2 job or from being self-employed.