Episode 181: How the ultrarich avoid paying taxes

2025-05-23

Understanding Tax Inequities: Why Billionaires Pay LessIn this episode of 'Therapy for Your Money,' host Julie Herres, an accountant and owner of Green Oak Accounting, delves into the often-asked question of why billionaires seem to pay so little in taxes compared to small business owners. Julie explains the U.S. tax system's design to benefit the ultra-wealthy and explores the 'buy, borrow, die' strategy that allows billionaires to leverage their assets without triggering taxable events. She also...

Understanding Tax Inequities: Why Billionaires Pay Less

In this episode of 'Therapy for Your Money,' host Julie Herres, an accountant and owner of Green Oak Accounting, delves into the often-asked question of why billionaires seem to pay so little in taxes compared to small business owners. Julie explains the U.S. tax system's design to benefit the ultra-wealthy and explores the 'buy, borrow, die' strategy that allows billionaires to leverage their assets without triggering taxable events. She also discusses estate taxes and how complex legal structures enable the wealthy to pass on fortunes tax-free. This episode aims to educate listeners about these discrepancies and inspire more informed conversations around tax reform.

Show Highlights

00:00 Introduction to Therapy for Your Money

00:44 Why Do Billionaires Pay Less in Taxes?

03:18 Understanding the Buy, Borrow, Die Strategy

10:46 The Impact of Tax System on Small Business Owners

11:55 Estate Tax and Wealth Transfer

15:04 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Resources

Money for Therapists Practice Startup - https://www.greenoakaccounting.com/startup

GreenOak Accounting - www.GreenOakAccounting.com

Therapy For Your Money Podcast - www.TherapyForYourMoney.com

Profit First for Therapists - www.ProfitFirstForTherapists.com