How much can you give tax-free in 2025?
Each year, the IRS adjusts the annual gift tax exclusion for inflation. In 2025, that exclusion increased to $19,000 per recipient, up from $18,000 in 2024. It is projected that this amount will remain unchanged for the year 2026. You can gift this amount to as many recipients as you like with no impact on your lifetime estate and gift tax exemption. If you’re married, your spouse can gift the same amount.
In 2025:
- You can give up to $19,000 per person without having to report it to the IRS.
- Married couples can combine their exclusions to give up to $38,000 per recipient tax-free.
For example, a married couple can give $38,000 to each of their two children, their spouses, and two grandchildren — totaling $228,000 tax-free.
Gifts made to spouses, charitable organizations, political groups, educational institutions (for tuition), and medical care providers may be exempt from gift tax. For larger gifts or complex situations, speak with a tax advisor to ensure you’re following current IRS guidelines.
These limits apply per calendar year. Gifts should be given by Dec. 31, 2025, to count for the 2025 tax year.
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