Core Points - The article discusses the implications of gifting money for a down payment on a mortgage, particularly focusing on tax considerations and lender requirements [6][10][20] Group 1: Gift Letter and Down Payment Process - A gift letter is necessary when transferring money for a down payment, confirming that the transfer is a unilateral gift with no expectation of repayment [2][7] - Lenders often have strict rules regarding who can provide down payment funds, typically requiring a longstanding relationship between the borrower and the giver to prevent fraud [3][4] - The mortgage application process involves detailed scrutiny of the borrower's finances, including the source of the down payment, which can raise concerns if it comes from a third party [4][5] Group 2: Tax Implications - Federal gift tax applies primarily to wealthy households, with the threshold set at approximately $13 million over a lifetime, meaning most individuals will not face gift tax issues [7][11] - The annual exclusion for gifts in 2024 is $18,000 for individuals and $36,000 for married couples, which allows for tax-free gifting up to these limits [12][14] - The lifetime exemption for gift and estate taxes is $13.61 million for individuals in 2024, increasing to $13.99 million in 2025, which affects the tax liability for larger gifts [15][19] Group 3: Managing Tax Liability - If a gift exceeds the annual exclusion, it reduces the lifetime exemption, but careful planning can help manage potential tax liabilities [17][18] - Delaying a gift until 2025 could allow for a higher lifetime exemption, potentially avoiding gift taxes on amounts exceeding the annual exclusion [19][20] - Consulting with a financial advisor is recommended for strategic gifting to minimize estate tax liabilities and ensure compliance with tax regulations [23]