Senior Tax Director

Bernard Rappaport, CPA ®

Bernard Rappaport, CPA®, is a tax principal at Perlson LLP specializing in estate planning and taxation of closely held businesses. He has represented high net worth individuals, trust and estates, real estate owners, law firms and money managers. Bernie has assisted clients with sophisticated estate tax, income tax, charitable planning and multi-generational issues. Additionally, he has counseled clients on residency issues and represented them on New York State residency tax audits.

With regard to estate planning, Bernie has been involved with many high net worth families utilizing valuation techniques, family partnerships and charitable entities. He has been involved in estate administration matters for a range of estates worth $10 million to $400 million, and has represented taxpayers before the IRS on valuation issues. Additionally, he has been involved in estate planning with regard to gifting strategies (i.e. use of Grats, Family Partnerships, Sales and Freeze Transactions).

Bernie has served on the Estate, Partnership and Closely Held Business committees of the New York State Society of Certified Public Accountants (NYSSCPA®). He is a former chair of its Estate Planning Committee.

Bernie has chaired the annual Estate Planning and S Corporation Conference for the New York State Society of Certified Public Accountants and testified in Washington on proposed partnership regulations. A past speaker, author and webinar presenter, he has written several articles for professional publications and spoken on estate planning, valuation, and partnership taxation.

Education:

Baruch College, B.B.A.
Pace University, M.S. in Taxation

Get To Know Bernard

1. What about your job inspires you?

The ability to be creative in helping families and individuals save money in taxes, and other estate expenses.

2. What are your hobbies and interests outside of work?

I enjoy time outdoors doing things like landscaping, bike riding, and hiking. I also enjoy reading about history.

3. How would you describe yourself in three words?

Optimistic, Happy, and Creative