50 States + D.C. coverage 2026 $15M federal exemption Statute-cited figures Editorial review 2026

District of Columbia Estate Tax Calculator

District of Columbia levies a state estate tax that applies once the taxable estate exceeds its exemption.

Estate tax
Federal exemption$15M
District of Columbia exemption$4.9884M
Top state rate16%
State portabilityNo
Federal estate tax$0
District of Columbia state estate tax$138,336
Total$138,336

State dollar amount is a model estimate — verify with the District of Columbia Department of Revenue.

Source: D.C. Code § 47-3701 (inflation-indexed exemption) (2026)

Administration & filing in District of Columbia

  • Who pays: The estate pays the tax before distribution to heirs.
  • Where filed: With District of Columbia's tax authority (typically the Department of Revenue or Taxation), on a state estate/inheritance tax return.
  • Deadline: State returns generally follow the federal estate tax return timeline (IRS Form 706, due ~9 months after death, with a 6-month extension available), but state dates can differ — confirm with the state agency.
  • Citation: D.C. Code § 47-3701 (inflation-indexed exemption) (2026)

Informal estimate only — not legal or tax advice. Figures cite federal statute (IRC § 2010, OBBBA 2025) and each state's Department of Revenue. Tax laws and exemption amounts change yearly; confirm the current rule with the IRS, your state agency, or a licensed estate attorney or CPA before relying on any number.

How this calculator works

This District of Columbia estate tax calculator combines the latest federal exemption with District of Columbia's state-specific rules. District of Columbia levies a state estate tax that applies once the taxable estate exceeds its exemption. Enter your estate size to see the federal tax, the state tax, and the combined total.

Calculation method & sources

  • Federal tax: IRC § 2010(c)(3) exemption of $15M per person and IRC § 2001 graduated brackets.
  • District of Columbia tax: D.C. Code § 47-3701 (inflation-indexed exemption) (2026).

How to interpret your District of Columbia estate tax result

  • District of Columbia estate tax applies once the taxable estate exceeds $4,988,400.
  • Top state rate: 16.0%.
  • District of Columbia does not recognize portability; married couples should consider a credit-shelter trust to use both exemptions.
  • Federal estate tax is calculated separately and may apply above the $15M federal exemption.

Related guides

Frequently asked questions

Does District of Columbia have an estate tax?
Yes. District of Columbia has a state estate tax with a $4,988,400 exemption and a top rate of 16.0%.
What is the District of Columbia estate tax exemption in 2026?
The 2026 District of Columbia estate tax exemption is $4,988,400 per person.
Does District of Columbia recognize portability of a deceased spouse's exemption?
No. District of Columbia does not recognize portability. Married couples often use a credit-shelter (bypass) trust to preserve both exemptions.
Does District of Columbia have an inheritance tax?
No. District of Columbia does not levy an inheritance tax.
Not legal or tax advice. This estimate follows the federal and state statutes referenced on this page but cannot capture every factor (trusts, business valuation, charitable deductions, prior gifts, state add-backs).