What Assets Should be Titled to a Limited Partnership?
Posted on Jan 4, 2021 12:59pm PST
You want to title your cash, CDs, mutual funds and other liquid investments
to one or more limited partnerships (LPs). We most frequently use LPs
to protect liquid investments because; 1) the LP lets you control these
assets; 2) your LP interest cannot be claimed by your creditors; 3) the
LP is tax-neutral; 4) the LP gives you maximum ownership and operating
flexibility; and 5) the LP lets you better plan your estate and reduce
your estate taxes. The LP is both versatile and protective. Most comprehensive
asset protection plans include at least one limited partnership. But the
limited partnership is only one option. Some planners recommend limited
liability companies (LLCs) because they too are COPES (limiting creditors
only to the charging order). But we prefer the limited partnership for
these assets because the limited partnership is designed to own 'safe'
assets and the LLC is preferable for business purposes and to own non-residential
real estate. Moreover, the limited partnership provides for discounted
estate tax valuations and finally, the limited partnership can simultaneously
own the client's multiple LLCs or C corporations and thus serve as
the foundation for their entire plan.
Retirement accounts or special accounts – such as 529 plans –
should usually remain outside the LP. Moreover, an LP shouldn't own
liability-producing assets such as real estate, equipment or vehicles
since the LP's general partners are personally liable for lawsuits
arising from its assets. That's why it's preferable to title your
'dangerous' assets to a limited liability company. While transfers
of assets to a limited partnership generally have no tax consequence,
it is always wisest to check with your accountant about the tax consequences
before you title any asset to a limited partnership – or any other entity.
In summary for liquid assets we prefer to utilize the limited partnership
method but ultimately what strategy we use depends upon your personal
situation, the value of your assets, your estate plan, and your financial
and tax objectives. For this reason, you should involve your financial
planner, tax advisor and the rest of your financial team in your planning.
Asset Protection is one goal, but you also want to structure your assets
correctly considering your other goals. Remember, your financial professionals
are important members of your wealth protection team and they are essential
to a coordinated, integrated plan.
Contact us today for a complimentary preliminary consultation regarding
your Asset Protection options.
The Presser Law Firm P.A.
6199 N. Federal Highway, Boca Raton FL 33487
(800) 999-9992 or e-mail
info@assetprotectionattorneys.com