Legal Definitions - tax-free exchange

A tax-free exchange is a transfer of property that does not trigger income tax consequences. This means that the transfer does not result in the transferor having to pay taxes on any gains made from the transfer.

For example, if a person transfers property to a controlled corporation under IRC § 351(a), they will not have to pay income taxes on any gains made from the transfer. Similarly, if a person engages in a like-kind exchange under IRC § 1031(a), they will not have to pay income taxes on any gains made from the exchange.

These examples illustrate how a tax-free exchange can be beneficial for individuals and corporations looking to transfer property without incurring additional tax liabilities. By deferring or exempting income tax consequences, tax-free exchanges can help individuals and corporations save money and streamline the transfer process.