Onerous Gift: A Comprehensive Guide to Its Legal Definition and Features

Definition & Meaning

An onerous gift is a type of gift that comes with specific conditions or obligations imposed on the recipient, known as the donee. These conditions may require the donee to fulfill certain responsibilities or charges as part of accepting the gift. In some cases, an onerous gift may resemble a sale because it involves an element of consideration, meaning something of value is exchanged.

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Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Example 1: A parent offers to gift their home to their child but requires that the child pay property taxes and maintain the property. This is an onerous gift because it comes with financial obligations.

Example 2: A grandparent gifts a car to a grandchild with the condition that the grandchild must pay for insurance and upkeep. The grandchild can choose to accept or decline the gift based on these obligations. (hypothetical example)

State-by-state differences

Examples of state differences (not exhaustive):

State Onerous Gift Regulations
Tennessee Onerous gifts are recognized and may involve specific tax implications.
California Onerous gifts may be subject to different treatment under state tax laws.

This is not a complete list. State laws vary, and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.

Comparison with related terms

Term Definition Key Differences
Gift A voluntary transfer of property without conditions. Onerous gifts have specific obligations attached.
Sale An exchange of goods or services for payment. Onerous gifts may involve consideration but are not typical sales.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you are considering accepting an onerous gift, carefully review the conditions attached to the gift. Ensure you understand the obligations you will assume. It may be beneficial to consult with a legal professional to clarify your responsibilities. Additionally, explore US Legal Forms for templates that can help you document the terms of the gift properly.

Quick facts

  • Onerous gifts can involve financial obligations.
  • The donee can choose to accept or decline the gift.
  • State laws may vary regarding the treatment of onerous gifts.

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

An onerous gift is a gift that comes with specific conditions or obligations for the recipient.