As set by the Appraisal Foundation authorized by Congress as The Source of Appraisal Standards and Appraisal Qualifications. The IRS requires verifiable documentation on the value of property in cases of gifts, donations and estate taxes. An appraisal document prepared in accordance with IRS guidelines and regulations assures you of proper documentation.

Insurance Appraisals are necessary in order to protect the value of your collection from loss due to fire, theft, damage etc.

Division of Property Appraisal will help determine the division of personal property due to divorce, bankruptcy or death. A current appraisal provides the necessary information to help ascertain equitable distribution of the collection.

Donation and Gift Appraisals are required by the Internal Revenue Service when a donation of one or more items are worth more than $5,000. The appraisal assures the value of the contribution for tax benefit purposes.

Estate Appraisals are required when an artist or collector dies. The estate must be given a value for federal tax purposes. Careful consideration to determine the Fair Market Value of the collection will ensure the estate is not over taxed. The estate planning appraisal offers an up to date determination of value which can be attached to a will.

Sales or Purchase Advise Appraisals include marketing consultation with regards to analysis of buying and selling in the appropriate market to optimize financial benefit decisions regarding the collection.

Credentials

Barbara J. Sussman is an Accredited Member of the American Society of Appraisers. She is USPAP tested and has completed the required courses in appraisal studies from the American Society of Appraisers at George Washington University Center's for professional development. She is Vice President of Fog Hill & Co, Inc. a fine arts service organization established in 1976. She has extensive education in the fine arts field. She is a Life member of the Arts Students League, and Artists Fellowship Organization of New York City. She enjoys a career as an art appraiser, professional artist, art consultant, art curator and conservation picture framer with 28 years of experience and also is listed in Who's Who among Professional American Women, Who's Who of American Artists and in the 2002 edition of 'American Painters, Sculptors and Engravers in the US'.

Education

Skidmore College, BS Arts Administration 2005, University Without Walls

George Washington University Center for Professional Development Wash. DC 2002-2003
American Society of Appraisers personal property valuation: Appraisal Studies in the fine and decorative arts.