New York state doesn't actually have a gift tax, although you may end up reporting high dollar amount gifts to the federal government. Making a gift or leaving your estate to your heirs does not ordinarily affect your federal income tax.A gift letter must contain the donor's name, the gift's value, confirmation that the gift is not to be repaid, and the donor's signature. Recipients generally never owe income tax on the gifts. If you plan to gift money to someone other than your spouse or dependent, at home or abroad, be aware that you may be required to pay gift tax. Your mortgage lender will likely require a gift letter confirming that the money is a gift and not a loan. If a gift exceeds an annual amount, then IRS form 709 needs to be filed. Types of gifts for mortgage assistance. In general, you won't be responsible for any taxes on gift funds. If their gift is too large, they may have to fill out a gift tax form when filing returns.