Estate Tax Calculator
Educational estimate of potential estate tax using editable assumptions (exemption, rate, state %). This is not tax or legal advice.
Inputs & assumptions
Tip: Set the exemption to the current year’s threshold and include any available DSUE. State taxes vary by jurisdiction.
Advanced adjustments
Valuation discounts (%)
Federal estate tax
State estate tax
Estimate highlights
Taxable after exemption
$0
Estimated total tax
$0
Federal $0 + State $0
Discounted gross estate
$6,000,000
Adjusted gross estate
$5,850,000
Deductions (charity + marital/QTIP)
$0
Tentative taxable base
$5,850,000
After debts, minus credit shelter, plus gifts (simplified)
Net to heirs (est.)
$5,850,000
Method applied
Federal: Flat / State: Flat
Federal toggle controls top rate vs. progressive bands. State toggle switches between flat % and bracketed calc with optional credit.
Estate outcomes vs. gross estate
Visualize how net inheritances, taxes, and debts change as the gross estate shifts.
Narrative
Estimated taxes — Federal $0 + State $0 = $0. Net to heirs after discounts/debts: $5,850,000. Methods — Federal: flat rate | State: flat percentage. Assumptions are editable.
Educational estimate only — not legal or tax advice. Estate tax law uses progressive tables, credits, elections (QTIP/portability), valuation discounts, and state-specific rules that may change. Consult a qualified professional.
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How to use the Estate Tax Calculator
Estimate potential federal and state estate taxes so you can plan gifting, trusts, or charitable strategies with your advisors.
- Enter the current value of real estate, investments, businesses, and other assets.
- Subtract debts, mortgages, and administrative costs to determine the taxable estate.
- Select your filing status and state to apply relevant exemptions and tax rates.
- Review the projected tax owed and explore gifting or trust strategies to reduce it.
Estate Tax Calculator key terms
Knowing how each field influences the results keeps the math grounded in reality.
Unified credit
The lifetime exemption amount shielding a portion of the estate from federal tax.
Portability
Allows a surviving spouse to use a deceased spouse’s unused exemption if proper elections are filed.
Step-up in basis
Resets the cost basis of inherited assets to fair market value, reducing capital gains for heirs.
Estate Tax Calculator planning ideas
Try running a few “what if” scenarios to translate the numbers into real-world decisions.
Lifetime gifting strategy
Model annual exclusion gifts versus lump-sum transfers to gauge how much they shrink the taxable estate.
Trust planning
Evaluate how irrevocable trusts or charitable remainder trusts could move assets out of the estate.
State-specific exposure
Some states have lower exemptions. Toggle locations to see whether relocation or trust situs changes your liability.
Frequently asked questions
Does the calculator replace professional advice?
No. Estate taxes involve legal documents and ever-changing laws. Use this tool to frame conversations with attorneys and CPAs.
How often should I update the numbers?
Revisit annually or after major life events—asset sales, business growth, or marriage—to ensure the plan reflects current values.