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

Maryland Estate & Inheritance Tax Calculator

Maryland levies both an estate tax (on the estate) and an inheritance tax (on what heirs receive).

Estate taxInheritance tax
Federal exemption$15M
Maryland exemption$5M
Top state rate16%
State portabilityNo
Federal estate tax$0
Maryland state estate tax$240,000
Total$240,000

Maryland also levies an inheritance tax on what heirs receive.

Source: Md. Code Tax-Gen. § 7-301 (estate) & § 7-201 (inheritance) (2026)

Administration & filing in Maryland

  • Who pays: The estate pays the tax before distribution to heirs.
  • Where filed: With Maryland'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: Md. Code Tax-Gen. § 7-301 (estate) & § 7-201 (inheritance) (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 Maryland estate & inheritance tax calculator combines the latest federal exemption with Maryland's state-specific rules. Maryland levies both an estate tax (on the estate) and an inheritance tax (on what heirs receive). 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.
  • Maryland tax: Md. Code Tax-Gen. § 7-301 (estate) & § 7-201 (inheritance) (2026).

How to interpret your Maryland estate tax result

  • Maryland estate tax applies once the taxable estate exceeds $5,000,000.
  • Top state rate: 16.0%.
  • Maryland does not recognize portability; married couples should consider a credit-shelter trust to use both exemptions.
  • Maryland also taxes what each heir receives, with different rates by relationship. Use our Inheritance calculator for per-heir figures.
  • Federal estate tax is calculated separately and may apply above the $15M federal exemption.

Related guides

Frequently asked questions

Does Maryland have an estate tax?
Yes. Maryland has a state estate tax with a $5,000,000 exemption and a top rate of 16.0%.
What is the Maryland estate tax exemption in 2026?
The 2026 Maryland estate tax exemption is $5,000,000 per person.
Does Maryland recognize portability of a deceased spouse's exemption?
No. Maryland does not recognize portability. Married couples often use a credit-shelter (bypass) trust to preserve both exemptions.
Does Maryland have an inheritance tax?
Yes. Maryland levies an inheritance tax on what heirs receive, with rates that vary by relationship. Spouses are typically exempt.
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).