California Estate Tax Calculator
Calculate estate and inheritance tax in California. No state estate tax. Federal exemption $13.61M. Free calculator.
How This Calculator Works
Calculation methodology and assumptions
Estate tax calculator for California. California has no state estate or inheritance tax — only federal estate tax applies. Federal estate tax exemption: $13.61M (2026), with rates from 18-40% on amounts above the exemption. Unlimited marital deduction applies to spousal transfers. Charitable bequests are fully deductible.
Key State Information
California estate tax facts: California has no state estate or inheritance tax — only federal estate tax applies. Median home value: $785,000. Without state estate tax, California is favorable for estate planning.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does California have an estate tax?
No. California does not have a state estate or inheritance tax. Only the federal estate tax applies (exemption: $13.61M).
How can I reduce estate tax in California?
Key strategies: (1) Maximize the marital deduction for spousal transfers, (2) Make annual gift tax exclusion gifts ($18,000/recipient/year), (3) Use charitable bequests, (4) Establish irrevocable trusts, (5) Move life insurance to an ILIT. Since California has no state estate tax, federal planning is the main focus.
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