My mother passed away 10 days ago. Ever since 1998 when my dad passed, I have been on her bank accounts. I recently checked with the bank and I was actually co-owner of the accounts. I have been paying her bills etc for 2 1/2 years since she has been in memory care. I sold her home a couple of months ago as POA, because she was running out of funds. The money for the house was put into her savings account. Mom wanted everything left to be split equally between me and my sister, which I of course will do. My question is since the money for the sale of the house was put into the account of which I am co-owner, when I give my sister half of what is left, will that be considered a gift from me, which will require paying taxes, or an inheritance, which is what it really is.
Alternatively, you could claim half of the joint accounts and the remaining half would be distributed according to the will. This does not appear to be your objective.
Sorry for your loss, it is always a challenge to lose a parent.
I had this same issue come up recently with giving my brother some of the money. Totally not an issue for us ordinary people.
I am sorry for your recent loss. Are you up to dealing with this issue now? Assure your sister that she will get half, and postpone the visit to the accountant if your are not quite ready to to handle business yet.
Did your mother leave a will?