Inheritance Tax Estimator
Estimate US federal estate tax from gross estate value using the 2024 exemption of $13.61M.
Returns taxable estate, marginal rate up to 40%, and tax owed.
Estate tax (sometimes called inheritance tax) is a tax on the transfer of wealth after death. In the United States, the federal estate tax applies only to estates above a certain exemption threshold.
2026 US Federal Estate Tax:
- Exemption: Approximately $13.61 million per individual ($27.22 million for married couples).
- Estates below the exemption owe $0 in federal estate tax.
- Only the amount above the exemption is taxed.
Federal Estate Tax Brackets:
| Taxable Amount | Tax Rate |
|---|---|
| $0 – $10,000 | 18% |
| $10,001 – $20,000 | 20% |
| $20,001 – $40,000 | 22% |
| $40,001 – $60,000 | 24% |
| $60,001 – $80,000 | 26% |
| $80,001 – $100,000 | 28% |
| $100,001 – $150,000 | 30% |
| $150,001 – $250,000 | 32% |
| $250,001 – $500,000 | 34% |
| $500,001 – $750,000 | 37% |
| $750,001 – $1,000,000 | 39% |
| Over $1,000,000 | 40% |
Key deductions that reduce the taxable estate:
- Marital deduction: Unlimited transfers to a surviving spouse.
- Charitable deduction: Gifts to qualified charities.
- Debts and expenses: Mortgages, funeral costs, estate administration fees.
State-level estate taxes also apply in some states (e.g., Massachusetts, Oregon, New York), often with lower exemptions starting around $1–6 million.
Tip: Estate planning strategies like trusts, gifting during your lifetime, and life insurance can significantly reduce estate tax liability. Consult a tax professional for personalized advice.