The formula
Estimated federal estate tax = tentative tax on taxable estate + adjusted taxable gifts − gift tax paid − applicable credit
Calculations run in your browser. Displayed values are rounded, while intermediate calculations keep their full precision.
What this estimate assumes
- This estimates U.S. federal estate tax for a U.S. citizen or resident dying in 2026; state estate or inheritance taxes are excluded.
- The 2026 basic exclusion amount defaults to US$15,000,000. A deceased spouse's unused exclusion (DSUE) is included only when supported by a valid portability election.
- Marital, charitable, debt, funeral and administration deductions are entered as amounts expected to qualify on Form 706.
- Complex gift-tax reconciliation, GST tax, QDOT rules, special-use valuation and alternate valuation are outside this estimate.
A quick reality check
US$20 million estate with no deductions or prior gifts
The amount above the US$15 million exclusion is US$5 million. At the 40% top marginal rate, the estimated federal estate tax is US$2 million.
Common questions
Does every heir pay this tax?
No. Federal estate tax is generally imposed on the estate, not separately on each heir. A state may have its own estate or inheritance tax.
Is the US$15 million amount permanent?
It is the federal basic exclusion for decedents dying in 2026 under current law. Congress can change the law, and inflation adjustments apply in later years.
Does portability happen automatically?
No. The executor generally must make a timely portability election on Form 706 for a surviving spouse to use DSUE.