2026 Estate Tax Calculator
The federal estate tax exemption drops by 50% in 2026. See how much of your wealth is at risk and how state taxes compound the issue.
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Married couples can often port their exemptions, effectively doubling the threshold.
Estimated State Estate Tax
Estimated Federal Estate Tax (2026 Sunset)
Protect Your Wealth
A proper trust can often eliminate these taxes entirely.
The 2026 Estate Tax Cliff Explained
On January 1, 2026, the historically high estate and gift tax exemption created by the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) is scheduled to "sunset." This means the exemption will drop from approximately $14 million per individual back down to around $7 million (adjusted for inflation).
For high-net-worth families, this sudden drop exposes millions of dollars to the 40% federal estate tax. Proper planning with irrevocable trusts, strategic gifting, and life insurance is critical before the deadline.
Source: Internal Revenue Service (IRS) - Estate Tax Guidelines
Frequently Asked Questions
Is my financial data safe?
Yes. Absolutely none of your inputs leave your device. Our calculators run 100% locally inside your web browser. We have no databases, no user accounts, and we do not track your financial inputs.
What happens when the TCJA sunsets in 2026?
The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) doubled the federal estate tax exemption. Unless Congress acts, this provision will sunset on January 1, 2026, cutting the exemption roughly in half (adjusted for inflation).
What is the difference between Federal and State Estate Tax?
The federal estate tax applies to large estates nationwide. However, some individual states levy their own separate estate or inheritance taxes, often with much lower exemption thresholds than the federal government.
Are these calculators legal advice?
No. These tools are strictly for educational purposes and rough estimates. Estate law varies heavily by state and individual circumstance. Always hire a qualified estate planning attorney before creating trusts.