US Estate Tax Calculator
Understand federal and state estate tax implications for your US-based estate. Most estates are not subject to estate tax.
Good News: Most Estates Owe No Estate Tax
The federal estate tax exemption for 2026 is $13.99 million per individual ($27.98 million for married couples). Only estates exceeding this threshold are subject to federal estate tax.
Estate Tax vs. Probate Costs
Estate Tax
- •Tax on transfer of wealth after death
- •Only applies to estates over $13.99M (federal)
- •Paid to IRS and/or state government
- •Affects less than 0.1% of estates
Probate Costs
- •Administrative costs for estate settlement
- •Applies to most estates going through probate
- •Paid to attorneys, executors, courts
- •Typically 3-7% of estate value
States with Estate Tax (2026)
These 12 states (plus DC) have their own estate tax with lower exemption thresholds:
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the federal estate tax exemption?
For 2026, the federal estate tax exemption is $13.99 million per individual. This means most estates do not owe any federal estate tax.
Which states have their own estate tax?
Currently, 12 states and the District of Columbia have their own estate taxes: CT, HI, IL, ME, MD, MA, MN, NY, OR, RI, VT, and WA.
What is the difference between estate tax and inheritance tax?
Estate tax is paid by the estate itself before distribution, while inheritance tax is paid by the person receiving the inheritance. Only a few states (like PA and NJ) have inheritance taxes.
How can I reduce my estate tax liability?
Common strategies include lifetime gifting, establishing irrevocable trusts, charitable donations, and using the marital deduction for surviving spouses.
Calculate Probate Costs Instead
While most estates don't owe estate tax, nearly all estates going through probate will incur probate costs. Calculate your expected costs.
Calculate Probate Costs