Key Facts
• Stock and mutual fund ownership has increased due to NISA policies.
• Inheritance of stocks requires a transfer process, which can take months.
• Stock valuation for inheritance tax is based on the lowest of four criteria.
• If stock prices crash after inheritance, tax burdens may remain high.
• Inherited stocks with unrealized gains are subject to both inheritance and capital gains taxes.
• A special rule allows partial tax relief if stocks are sold within 3 years and 10 months.
• NISA accounts cannot be directly inherited; stocks are transferred to taxable accounts.
• iDeCo accounts are liquidated and paid as a death benefit with tax exemptions.
• Credit trading debts must be settled, and unawareness can lead to inheriting liabilities.
• Cryptocurrency inheritance is taxed at the market value on the date of death.
• Cryptocurrency gains are taxed as miscellaneous income, with rates up to 55%.
Summary
The rise in stock and mutual fund ownership has led to more inheritance cases, but the process is fraught with challenges. Stocks cannot be sold until transfer procedures are complete, which may take months, during which market fluctuations can impact tax calculations. Inherited stocks with unrealized gains face dual taxation: inheritance and capital gains. Relief measures exist, such as the “special acquisition cost rule,” but timing is critical. NISA accounts cannot be inherited directly, while iDeCo accounts offer tax-exempt death benefits. Credit trading and cryptocurrency inheritances pose additional risks, including potential liabilities and high tax rates. Proper planning and awareness are essential to mitigate financial burdens.
