Calculate how much inheritance tax you may owe based on the estate value, your relationship to the deceased, and applicable state or federal exemptions. Plan your estate and understand your tax obligations.
Federal Exemption (2024): $13,610,000 per individual
Tax Rate: 40% on amount exceeding the exemption
Portability: Unused exemption can transfer to surviving spouse
State exemption and tax rates vary by state and beneficiary relationship
Spouses are generally exempt from state inheritance tax
| State | Exemption | Spouse | Child | Sibling | Other Relative | Non-Relative |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Iowa (IA) | $25,000 | Exempt | 2% | 4% | 4% | 4% |
| Kentucky (KY) | $1,000 | Exempt | 4% | 8% | 12% | 16% |
| Maryland (MD) | $5,000,000 | Exempt | 0% | 4% | 8% | 10% |
| Nebraska (NE) | $40,000 | Exempt | 1% | 6% | 12% | 18% |
| New Jersey (NJ) | $25,000 | Exempt | 0% | 8% | 12% | 16% |
| Pennsylvania (PA) | $3,500 | Exempt | 0% | 7% | 12% | 15% |
Input the total value of the deceased person's estate including real estate, investments, cash, and other assets.
Choose the state where the deceased resided. Only six states impose inheritance taxes. If your state is not listed, select "No State Inheritance Tax."
Select how you are related to the deceased. Spouses are generally exempt from inheritance tax. Closer relatives typically receive more favorable tax rates.
View your federal tax, state tax, total tax, and net inheritance. Use the breakdown section to see each step of the calculation.
An estate tax is paid by the estate itself before any assets are distributed to beneficiaries. The federal government only imposes an estate tax, not an inheritance tax. An inheritance tax is paid by the individual beneficiaries who receive the assets. Some states impose inheritance taxes, while others have estate taxes. Understanding the difference is crucial for effective estate planning.
As of 2024, only six states impose an inheritance tax: Iowa, Kentucky, Maryland, Nebraska, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania. In those states, the tax rate depends on both the value of the inheritance and the beneficiary's relationship to the deceased. Spouses are universally exempt, and direct descendants (children) typically enjoy lower rates than distant relatives or non-relatives.
The federal estate tax exemption for 2024 is $13.61 million per individual. This means estates valued below this threshold owe no federal estate tax. For married couples, portability allows the surviving spouse to use any unused exemption from the deceased spouse, effectively doubling the exemption to over $27 million. Estates exceeding the exemption are taxed at a flat 40% rate on the excess amount.
Our inheritance tax calculator helps you estimate federal and state tax liability on inherited assets. Whether you're a beneficiary trying to understand your tax obligations or an estate planner looking to minimize tax exposure, this tool provides accurate calculations based on current exemption amounts and tax rates.
Disclaimer: This inheritance tax calculator is for educational and planning purposes only. Tax laws are complex and subject to change. The federal estate tax exemption is scheduled to change after 2025. State laws may vary based on local regulations and recent legislation. Consult with a qualified tax professional or estate planning attorney for personalized advice regarding your specific situation.