A gift-splitting election is the formal consent made on each spouse's Form 709 to treat eligible gifts during the year as made one-half by each spouse. The election applies to all qualifying gifts for that year and must be reported consistently. It increases exclusion efficiency and simplifies intra-family transfers.

CPAs prepare matching 709s reflecting the election. Advisors structure gifts to fit exclusion limits and coordinate with trust funding calendars and Crummey notices.