What this calculator shows you
- Estate Valuation
- Calculate total estate value
- Exemption Analysis
- Apply current exemptions
- Tax Liability
- Estimate taxes owed
- Planning Strategies
- Learn ways to reduce liability
Current Exemptions
The federal estate tax exemption is $15 million per individual for 2026, indexed for inflation after that. Most estates owe no federal estate tax. Amounts above it are taxed at up to 40%.
Reduction Strategies
Strategies include: annual gift exclusions, charitable giving, irrevocable trusts, life insurance trusts, and spousal transfers. Complex estates should work with estate planning attorneys.
Questions people ask
Will I owe estate tax?
Most Americans will not. Only estates exceeding $15 million (2026) face federal estate tax. However, some states have lower exemptions, so check your state laws.
Is estate tax the same as inheritance tax?
No. Estate tax is paid by the estate before distribution. Inheritance tax (which only some states have) is paid by beneficiaries. Federal law only has estate tax, not inheritance tax.
Education only, not personalized financial, tax or investment advice. Results are estimates based on the numbers you enter; real returns vary and losses happen.