InvestingRetirementTax Tips
The CRUT Strategy: How to Sell Crypto & Real Estate Tax-Free for Lifetime Income
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Result: The CRUT generates $700k+ more income over 20 years.
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The CRUT Strategy: How to Sell Crypto & Real Estate Tax-Free for Lifetime Income
CORE INSIGHTS
- The Trap: You bought Bitcoin at $100 or Real Estate in 1990. Selling triggers a 30% tax hit. A CRUT allows you to sell tax-free within the trust.
- The Escape Hatch: By transferring the asset to a Charitable Remainder Unitrust (CRUT), you bypass capital gains tax and reinvest 100% of the proceeds.
- The Payoff: You get an annual income stream (e.g., 5%) for life from the full pre-tax amount. You trade a volatile asset for a diversified income machine.
“Diversification is the only free lunch,” unless you have to pay taxes to get it. The CRUT solves this liquidity trap. It unlocks the full value of your asset today, defers taxes, and leaves a legacy.
The “Compound Tax Savings” Math
Why does a CRUT beat a taxable sale?
- Taxable Sale: $1M Asset – $300k Tax = $700k Invested.
- CRUT Sale: $1M Asset – $0 Tax = $1,000,000 Invested.
- The Leverage: You earn 7% on $1M instead of $700k. The “Government Money” works for you.
What-If Scenario: $2M Bitcoin or Property Sale
| Metric | Sell & Pay Tax | CRUT Strategy |
|---|---|---|
| Investable Capital | $1,400,000 | $2,000,000 |
| Year 1 Income (6%) | $84,000 | $120,000 |
| Total Income (20 Yrs) | ~$1.7M | ~$2.4M |
Visualizing the Income Advantage
*Figure 1: Income Stream. The Green line (CRUT) pulls away because it starts with a larger principal.*
Strategic Action Steps
1
Draft Before Selling
You must transfer the asset to the trust before signing a sales contract. If you sell first, you owe the tax.
You must transfer the asset to the trust before signing a sales contract. If you sell first, you owe the tax.
2
Fund & Sell
Transfer the asset to the Trust. The Trustee sells it tax-free. No capital gains triggered.
Transfer the asset to the Trust. The Trustee sells it tax-free. No capital gains triggered.
3
Reinvest & Distribute
The Trust reinvests 100% of proceeds into a diversified portfolio. You receive annual income (e.g., 5%) for life.
The Trust reinvests 100% of proceeds into a diversified portfolio. You receive annual income (e.g., 5%) for life.
The Bottom Line: Who Should Choose What?
- Choose CRUT: Investors with highly appreciated assets ($1M+) wanting to diversify without a tax hit.
- Choose Sale: Investors needing a huge lump sum immediately (not income over time).
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Charitable Remainder Unitrust (CRUT)?
A trust that lets you donate appreciated assets, sell them tax-free, and receive an income stream for life. The remainder goes to charity.
Why is this better than selling?
Compound Interest on Tax Money. A CRUT reinvests the full pre-tax amount. Income on $1M beats income on $700k.
Does this work for Crypto?
Yes. Since Crypto has no 1031 Exchange, a CRUT is the best way to exit a concentrated position tax-efficiently.
Disclaimer: CRUTs are irrevocable. You give up ownership of principal. Consult an estate attorney.