— Tax Services
Estate Tax in San Francisco
Navigating the complexities of estate tax in San Francisco, Presti & Naegele is your trusted ally. With over four decades of accounting expertise, we offer robust estate tax services to safeguard your assets, ensure compliance, and bring peace of mind to you and your heirs. Whether you're proactively planning or managing an estate post-loss, we provide clarity in a critical financial area. From the iconic Golden Gate Bridge to the vibrant culture of Fisherman's Wharf, we understand the unique dynamics of San Francisco.
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Estate Tax Services
At Presti & Naegele, we empower individuals and businesses through expert advisory services. With personalized guidance, we build enduring partnerships and contribute to sustained success.
What Is the Meaning of Estate Tax?
Estate tax is a federal levy on the total worth of a deceased person’s assets at their passing. These assets, including real estate, investments, business interests, and personal items, comprise what the IRS calls the "gross estate." At Presti & Naegele, we guide you to understand asset inclusions, valuation processes, and ways to minimize liabilities through strategic planning and precise filing in San Francisco.
Our extensive estate tax service addresses all aspects—from identifying taxable assets to calculating deductions and preparing federal estate tax returns. We collaborate closely with executors, trustees, and family members to ensure a streamlined and error-free process.
Do You Have to Pay Taxes on Money Given to You When Someone Dies?
Typically, beneficiaries aren’t taxed on inherited assets, yet some exceptions apply. Distributions from tax-deferred retirement accounts can incur tax consequences. Additionally, the estate might face federal and state taxes in San Francisco before making distributions.
Presti & Naegele offers invaluable assistance. Our estate tax experts clarify taxable elements, identify strategies to lower estate tax exposure, and manage essential documentation required by the IRS and California state authorities. We ensure heirs receive inheritances smoothly, minimizing tax implications.
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Why Estate Tax Services Matter More Than Ever
Estate tax involves more than numbers; it’s about preserving legacies, alleviating family stress, and protecting what you’ve built over a lifetime. At Presti & Naegele, we recognize the emotional and financial weight of finalizing an estate. That’s why we provide not only tax solutions but also trusted guidance and steadfast support.
Our estate tax services tackle key issues:
✔ We prevent legal issues and penalties from incorrect filings in San Francisco.
✔ We reduce stress for families in emotionally demanding times.
✔ We discover tax-saving opportunities that others may overlook.
✔ We ensure full IRS compliance, delivering peace of mind.
Who Benefits Most from Estate Tax Services?
Our estate tax services are vital for:
✔ High-net-worth individuals in San Francisco seeking proactive estate planning.
✔ Executors and trustees handling complex or substantial estates.
✔ Families wanting to ensure their loved one’s intentions are honored and safeguarded.
✔ Attorneys and financial advisors in search of dependable CPA partners.
Whether you're managing estate tax for the first time or planning to protect an estate from future liabilities, Presti & Naegele provides the clarity and strategic direction you need.
Long-Term Value That Extends Beyond the Estate
What sets Presti & Naegele apart is our ability to provide value long after the estate is settled. From helping families establish trusts and gifting strategies to advising on succession planning, our firm becomes a financial ally for life. Our insights and services go beyond estate tax—they build enduring financial resilience.
Why Choose Presti & Naegele for Estate Tax Services?
Presti & Naegele blends expertise with personalized service. Here’s why clients in San Francisco and beyond select us:
✔ Extensive experience in navigating estate tax laws and regulations.
✔ Personalized attention from CPAs who prioritize your family’s future in San Francisco.
✔ Innovative strategies to maximize tax efficiency and safeguard assets.
✔ A comprehensive firm offering advisory, valuation, and forensic capabilities for all financial needs.
At Presti & Naegele, we don’t just manage your estate tax return—we prepare you for the future.
Frequently Asked Questions About Estate Tax
How is estate tax calculated?
Estate tax is calculated based on the gross estate value, which includes all assets you own or control at the time of your death. This value is reduced by allowable deductions such as debts, funeral expenses, and charitable contributions. The resulting taxable estate is then assessed at the current federal estate tax rate. Our team ensures all possible deductions are accurately accounted for to reduce your estate tax liability.
What is the federal estate tax exemption?
As of 2025, the federal estate tax exemption allows individuals to transfer a certain amount—over $13 million tax-free—to heirs before estate tax applies. Married couples can often double this amount. Presti & Naegele helps you plan within these thresholds and recommends gifting strategies and trusts to optimize your exemption usage.
Is there a difference between inheritance tax and estate tax?
Yes. Estate tax is levied on the deceased’s estate before distribution to heirs, while inheritance tax is imposed on the beneficiaries after they receive their inheritance. New York does not have an inheritance tax, but understanding state and federal differences is essential. We guide you through both, ensuring full compliance and strategic planning.
What happens if an estate tax return is filed late?
Filing late can result in substantial penalties and interest. Executors are legally responsible for timely submission, which is why engaging an experienced accounting firm like Presti & Naegele is crucial. We meet all deadlines, handle extensions when necessary, and protect you from unnecessary penalties.
Can estate taxes be reduced or avoided?
Yes—through effective planning. Options include gifting during your lifetime, setting up trusts, charitable contributions, and leveraging the marital deduction. Our CPAs craft personalized strategies to significantly reduce estate tax exposure and preserve more of your legacy for future generations.
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Discover the transformative experiences shared by our satisfied clients. In their own words, they highlight the impact of Presti & Naegele's expert tax services, client accounting precision, and strategic guidance on their financial success. Read our reviews to gain insights into the personalized and enduring partnerships we've forged.
I have had my business for more than 10 years and struggled through several *truly awful* accountants. I found Presti & Naegele about 5 years ago and have never looked back. They are a life-changing breath of fresh air and they will be my accountants for as long as I live.
Andy and the whole Presti Naegele team have been game changers as accountants for our business. My previous accountant was very hands-off and not accessible. Andy and his team are always available, willing and able to roll up their sleeves no matter what we throw at them. Highly recommend - do NOT hesitate to work with them!
