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

Hawaii Estate Tax Calculator

Hawaii levies a state estate tax that applies once the taxable estate exceeds its exemption.

Estate tax
Federal exemption$15M
Hawaii exemption$5.49M
Top state rate20%
State portabilityNo
Federal estate tax$0
Hawaii state estate tax$159,560
Total$159,560

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

Source: Haw. Rev. Stat. § 236E-3 (2026)

Administration & filing in Hawaii

  • Who pays: The estate pays the tax before distribution to heirs.
  • Where filed: With Hawaii'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: Haw. Rev. Stat. § 236E-3 (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 Hawaii estate tax calculator combines the latest federal exemption with Hawaii's state-specific rules. Hawaii 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.
  • Hawaii tax: Haw. Rev. Stat. § 236E-3 (2026).

How to interpret your Hawaii estate tax result

  • Hawaii estate tax applies once the taxable estate exceeds $5,490,000.
  • Top state rate: 20.0%.
  • Hawaii 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 Hawaii have an estate tax?
Yes. Hawaii has a state estate tax with a $5,490,000 exemption and a top rate of 20.0%.
What is the Hawaii estate tax exemption in 2026?
The 2026 Hawaii estate tax exemption is $5,490,000 per person.
Does Hawaii recognize portability of a deceased spouse's exemption?
No. Hawaii does not recognize portability. Married couples often use a credit-shelter (bypass) trust to preserve both exemptions.
Does Hawaii have an inheritance tax?
No. Hawaii 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).