About the Estate Tax Calculator
This calculator estimates the federal estate tax owed on an estate. You enter the value of the estate and its deductions, and the tool returns an estimated tax liability, the taxable estate amount, and the exemption portion used. Results update as you adjust each input.
The calculation follows the federal estate tax method under the unified credit system. It starts with your gross estate, subtracts allowable deductions such as debts, funeral costs, charitable gifts, and marital transfers, then applies the applicable federal exemption and the graduated tax rates, which reach 40% at the top bracket. Prior taxable gifts reduce the available exemption. Enter realistic asset values, and remember that many states impose separate estate or inheritance taxes with lower exemptions. For large or complex estates, consider a tax professional.
- Enter the total gross value of all estate assets.
- List deductions, including debts, charitable gifts, and marital transfers.
- Add prior taxable gifts, then review the estimated tax and exemption used.