Estate Tax Calculator
Calculate federal and state estate taxes using our estate tax calculator. Estimate your estate tax liability and plan strategies to minimize tax burden on your heirs.
Estate Information
Deductions & Adjustments
Lifetime gifts exceeding annual exclusion
Qualified charitable bequests
Debts, funeral expenses, admin costs
Estate Tax Summary
Total Estate Tax
$0
Federal Tax
$0
State Tax
$0
Effective Tax Rate
0.00%
Net to Heirs
$15,000,000
Federal Exemption: $0 for individuals
Federal Exemption Utilization
This chart displays how much of your federal estate tax exemption has been used versus what remains available for future transfers.
Understanding Estate Taxes
Estate taxes are levied on the transfer of property at death. Our estate tax calculator helps you estimate both federal and state estate tax liabilities, allowing you to plan strategies to minimize the tax burden on your heirs and maximize the wealth passed to the next generation.
Key Concepts
Federal Estate Tax
The federal estate tax is a 40% tax on the value of an estate above the exemption amount. For 2025, the exemption is $13.99 million for individuals and $27.98 million for married couples.
State Estate Tax
Thirteen states and DC impose their own estate taxes, with exemptions ranging from $1 million (Oregon) to $13.99 million (Connecticut). State tax rates typically range from 10-20%.
Portability
Married couples can transfer unused exemption between spouses, effectively doubling the exemption if properly planned. This requires filing an estate tax return even if no tax is due.
Step-Up in Basis
Inherited assets receive a step-up in cost basis to fair market value at death, eliminating capital gains tax on appreciation during the decedent's lifetime.
Estate Planning Strategies
- Annual gifting using the $18,000 annual exclusion (2024-2025)
- Irrevocable life insurance trusts (ILITs) to remove policy proceeds from estate
- Qualified Personal Residence Trusts (QPRTs) for transferring home value
- Grantor Retained Annuity Trusts (GRATs) for transferring appreciating assets
- Charitable remainder trusts for philanthropic goals and tax benefits
- Family limited partnerships or LLCs for business succession and valuation discounts
- Spousal Lifetime Access Trusts (SLATs) for married couples
- State domicile planning to minimize or eliminate state estate tax
Important: Estate tax laws are complex and subject to change. The federal exemption is scheduled to sunset to approximately $7 million (inflation-adjusted) after 2025 unless Congress acts. Always consult with qualified estate planning attorneys and tax professionals before implementing any estate planning strategies.
Disclaimer: This estate tax calculator is provided for educational and informational purposes only. The calculations are estimates based on the inputs you provide and current tax law. Actual estate tax liability may vary based on numerous factors including specific deductions, credits, valuation methods, and changes in tax law. State estate tax laws vary significantly and this calculator provides simplified estimates. This tool does not constitute legal, tax, or financial advice. Estate planning is complex and requires consideration of your unique circumstances. Always consult with qualified estate planning attorneys, CPAs, and financial advisors before making any estate planning decisions or relying on these calculations.
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