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Step-Up Basis Optimization

Die with the appreciated assets; heirs get zero cap gains.

Overview

Assets held at death receive a stepped-up cost basis to FMV — wiping out ALL prior cap gains. Strategy: hold appreciated assets until death; sell depreciated assets during life; borrow against appreciated (SBLOC/margin) for spending.

Best fit
Retirees with appreciated portfoliosEstate plannersBuy-Borrow-Die adherents
Estimated impact
Eliminate 20–37% cap gains permanently on all appreciated assets

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