Estate of Casey v. Commissioner

Judge: Phillips

948 F.2nd 895

Code Section 2038

Petra Durova

Facts:

Olive Casey, a resident of Virginia, died in 1989. Married to Carlton Casey until his death in 1982. 3 sons- Carlton, Lewis and Robert. 90% of assets held in Carlton’s name, Olive had

dower interest. 1962, 1968, 1969 Carlton transferred parcels to

sons to eliminate estate tax, Olive joined to release her dower interests.

1973 Olive appointed Robert her attorney-in-fact (valid when Olive incompetent).

Power of Attorney authorized Robert to:

"to lease, sell, grant, convey assign, transfer, mortgage and set over to any person, firm or corporation and for such consideration as he may deem advantageous, any and all of my property ... and "to accept and receive any and all consideration payable to me on account of any such lease, sale, conveyance, transfer or assignment and to invest and reinvest the proceeds derived therefrom."

However, the instrument nowhere expressly conferred any power “to make gifts”.

Facts:

1974-1977 Carlton followed his plan to minimize his estate tax Yearly transfers of property to children and grandchildren’s

trusts. 1980 Olive incompetent due to Alzheimer’s disease, Robert

joined Carlton in execution of additional transfers in 1980 and 1981 as Olives attorney-in-fact.

Carlton dies 1982 Robert transferres money to donees, including himself in 1982

and 1983. 1989- Commissioner claims 1982 and 1983 gifts are voidable

transfers No express grant of authority to make gifts on Olives behalf. Results in deficiency assessment.

Tax Court Reasoning: Robert had power to make gifts to family as it was

within the scope of the power granted. Olives established pattern of giving by joining Carlton in

transferring property to kids.

Decision: Tax Court held that Robert was authorized to make the

gifts in question on decedent’s behalf. Results in no tax deficiency.

Commissioner appealed >> U.S Court of AppealsReasoning:1) VA court strictly limits the authority of agent to letter of his instructions

“bright line rule”. No gift power expressed in letter.

2) Of four principal purposes for asset transfer- sale, lease, mortgage and

gift- all but gift are expressly authorized. Intentional omission-indicator of her intent.

3) None of Olives previous gifts were gifts of her own property. Only release

dower interest. While Carlton alive, different financial situation.

Conclusion:

U.S Court of Appeals agreed with Commissioner and reversed the decision of the Tax Court. It resulted in deficiency to the Casey estate tax.