Properly structured and executed permanent life insurance policies accumulate cash values tax free, then distribute them to the policy owner tax free in the form of loans, or tax free to the beneficiary upon death of the insured. Thus, they can be viewed as a tax shelter in some situations, especially since there is no limit (except financial justification) to the amount that can be contributed to them.
NOTE: Values above basis (face amount) of the policy can be taxed, interest on the death benefit can be taxed if taken in installments, and estate taxes apply. See your tax attorney and your life insurance agent together for a thorough review of all the implications and advantages of using life insurance as a tax shelter.
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NOTE: Values above basis (face amount) of the policy can be taxed, interest on the death benefit can be taxed if taken in installments, and estate taxes apply. See your tax attorney and your life insurance agent together for a thorough review of all the implications and advantages of using life insurance as a tax shelter.