2026-01-14
Estate Taxes and Bullion: The Basics (Stepped-Up Basis)
Good news. When you die, the IRS forgives your capital gains. Here is how the "Stepped-Up Basis" rule works for silver.
Disclaimer: We are not accountants. This is for educational purposes only.
The "Stepped-Up Basis" Miracle
If you bought silver in 1990 for $5.00/oz. And you sell it today for $30.00/oz. You owe Capital Gains Tax on the $25 profit.
However... If you die, and leave that silver to your son, his "Cost Basis" steps up to the price on the day you died.
- You bought at $5.00.
- You die when Spot is $30.00.
- Your son's Cost Basis becomes $30.00.
- If he sells it immediately for $30.00, his profit is $0.
- Tax Due: $0.
Holding Until Death
This is why wealthy families rarely sell assets. They borrow against them or hold them until death to reset the tax clock. "Buy, Borrow, Die." It works for real estate, stocks, and (yes) Gold & Silver.
Tax Strategy
We interview a CPA about the specific IRS forms (1099-B) that trigger when selling metals. Know the rules.