Inheritance Tax Calculator

Calculate inheritance tax liabilities based on 2026 tax laws, estate value, relationship to deceased, and jurisdiction.

Disclaimer: This calculator provides estimates for informational purposes only. Actual inheritance tax liabilities depend on specific jurisdictions, exemptions, and current 2026 laws. Consult a qualified tax professional for accurate calculations.

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Total value of assets, property, and investments being inherited
$250K Estate
$500K Estate
$1M Estate
$2.5M Estate
$5M Estate
Closer relationships typically have higher exemptions and lower rates
Select a jurisdiction to apply its specific 2026 tax rules and exemptions
Advanced Options & Deductions
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Deductible debts, loans, and funeral expenses
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Charitable donations from the estate (often tax-exempt)
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Attorney fees, executor commissions, court costs
Discount applied to asset values for tax purposes
Calculating...

Understanding Inheritance Tax

Inheritance tax (also known as estate tax in some countries) is a tax imposed on the estate of a deceased person before distribution to their heirs. The tax rate and exemptions vary significantly by jurisdiction and relationship to the deceased.

Key Factors in Inheritance Tax Calculation:

  • Estate Value: Total value of all assets, property, and investments
  • Relationship to Deceased: Closer relatives typically receive higher exemptions and lower rates
  • Jurisdiction: Tax rules vary by country, state, or province
  • Deductions: Debts, funeral expenses, and charitable donations reduce taxable estate
  • Exemptions: Certain amounts are exempt from tax based on relationship

Common Inheritance Tax Systems (2026)

Jurisdiction Tax Name Basic Exemption (2026) Top Tax Rate Notes
United States (Federal) Estate Tax $15.0 million 40% Tax on estate before distribution; unlimited spousal exemption
United Kingdom Inheritance Tax £325,000 40% Tax on estate above threshold; spouse exemption; reduced rate for charitable giving
Germany Erbschaftsteuer €20,000-€500,000 30-50% Varies by relationship; spouse/children have highest exemptions
France Droits de Succession €100,000 (child) 45% Progressive rates based on relationship and amount
Japan Inheritance Tax ¥30 million + ¥6 million/heir 55% Progressive rates with basic deduction based on number of heirs
Taiwan Estate Tax NT$13.33 million 20% Progressive rates: 10% (≤NT$50M), 15% (NT$50M-100M), 20% (>NT$100M)
Australia No Inheritance Tax N/A 0% Abolished in 1979; some states may have other taxes
Canada No Inheritance Tax N/A 0% No direct inheritance tax; capital gains may be deemed realized at death

Tax Planning Strategies for 2026

1

Gifting During Lifetime: Many jurisdictions allow tax-free gifts up to certain amounts annually, reducing the taxable estate.

2

Trusts: Establishing trusts can help manage how assets are distributed and may provide tax advantages depending on jurisdiction.

3

Charitable Donations: Donations to qualified charities are often fully deductible from the taxable estate.

4

Life Insurance: Proceeds from life insurance policies are often tax-free for beneficiaries and can provide liquidity for paying taxes.

Key Terminology

  • Estate: All assets, property, and liabilities left by a deceased person
  • Executor: Person appointed to administer the estate
  • Probate: Legal process of administering a deceased person's estate
  • Beneficiary: Person or entity entitled to receive assets from the estate
  • Exemption: Amount that can be transferred tax-free
  • Progressive Tax: Tax rate increases as the taxable amount increases
  • Unlimited Marital Deduction: Allows transfer of unlimited assets to spouse tax-free in some jurisdictions

Important Disclaimer:

This calculator provides estimates based on typical inheritance tax rules for 2026. Actual tax liabilities depend on specific circumstances, current laws, and jurisdiction-specific rules. Tax laws change frequently, and this calculator may not reflect the most current regulations. Always consult with a qualified tax professional or estate planning attorney for accurate calculations and advice tailored to your specific situation.