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

Washington Estate Tax Calculator

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

Estate tax
Federal exemption$15M
Washington exemption$3M
Top state rate20%
State portabilityNo
Federal estate tax$0
Washington state estate tax$170,000
Total$170,000

Source: Wash. Rev. Code § 83.100 (Table W, eff. 7/1/2026: exemption $3M, 10%→20% graduated; ESB 6347) (2026)

Administration & filing in Washington

  • Who pays: The estate pays the tax before distribution to heirs.
  • Where filed: With Washington'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: Wash. Rev. Code § 83.100 (Table W, eff. 7/1/2026: exemption $3M, 10%→20% graduated; ESB 6347) (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 Washington estate tax calculator combines the latest federal exemption with Washington's state-specific rules. Washington 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.
  • Washington tax: Wash. Rev. Code § 83.100 (Table W, eff. 7/1/2026: exemption $3M, 10%→20% graduated; ESB 6347) (2026).

How to interpret your Washington estate tax result

  • Washington estate tax applies once the taxable estate exceeds $3,000,000.
  • Top state rate: 20.0%.
  • Washington 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 Washington have an estate tax?
Yes. Washington has a state estate tax with a $3,000,000 exemption and a top rate of 20.0%.
What is the Washington estate tax exemption in 2026?
The 2026 Washington estate tax exemption is $3,000,000 per person.
Does Washington recognize portability of a deceased spouse's exemption?
No. Washington does not recognize portability. Married couples often use a credit-shelter (bypass) trust to preserve both exemptions.
Does Washington have an inheritance tax?
No. Washington 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).