Estate Tax Calculator
US federal estate tax estimate (2024 exemption $13.61M, 40%).
Inputs
$
Result
Taxable Estate$1,390,000.00
Estate Tax$556,000.00
About the Estate Tax Calculator
The Estate Tax Calculator estimates the federal estate tax owed on a decedent's estate above the current exemption threshold.
Calculation method
Estate tax applies only above the federal exemption (~$13.6M in 2024, per person). Above that, tax rates rise progressively to 40%.
Tax = (Estate − Exemption) × Rate (up to 40%)How to use this calculator
- Enter the gross estate value.
- Enter deductions (spousal transfer, charitable, debts).
- The tool applies the exemption and rate schedule.
Example
A $15M estate with $500K in deductions has $14.5M taxable, or ~$900K above the exemption, producing approximately $360K in federal estate tax.
Frequently asked questions
Do most estates owe estate tax?
No. Fewer than 0.1% of US estates pay federal estate tax because of the very high exemption. Some states have lower exemptions.
What is portability?
A surviving spouse can add the deceased spouse's unused exemption to their own, effectively doubling the shelter available to a married couple.
How can estate tax be reduced?
Annual gifting, lifetime gifts within the exemption, ILITs, GRATs, and charitable trusts are common strategies. Consult an estate planning attorney.
Disclaimer: This calculator is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute financial, tax, or legal advice. Consult a qualified professional for decisions specific to your situation.