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Pennsylvania Inheritance Tax Calculator

Pennsylvania is one of only 5 US states with an inheritance tax. Pennsylvania has no dollar exemption threshold. The tax applies to the first dollar inherited by any non-exempt beneficiary, regardless of estate size.

Spouse

Exempt

Child age 21 or younger (from a parent)

Exempt

Lineal descendants/ascendants (adult children, grandchildren, stepchildren, parents)

4.5%

Siblings

12%

$
ExemptionNone
Tax rate0%
Rates updated for June 2026

Pennsylvania inheritance tax on $100,000

Tax owed

$0

You keep

$100,000

This calculator is for informational purposes only and does not constitute tax advice. Consult a qualified tax professional for your specific situation. Rates last verified June 2026.

Verify rates on Pennsylvania Department of Revenue — Inheritance Tax

Pennsylvania inheritance tax by relationship

Source: Pennsylvania Department of Revenue — Inheritance Tax.

RelationshipExemptionRate
Spouse0%
Child age 21 or younger (from a parent)0%
Lineal descendants/ascendants (adult children, grandchildren, stepchildren, parents)4.5%
Siblings12%
All other beneficiaries15%
Charities and government entities0%

Frequently asked questions

What is the inheritance tax rate in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania's inheritance tax rate depends entirely on your relationship to the deceased. Spouse, Child age 21 or younger (from a parent), Charities and government entities are fully exempt. Other beneficiaries pay rates ranging from 4.5% to 12% to 15%, depending on the beneficiary class and amount inherited. Select your relationship to the deceased above for your specific rate and exemption.
Does federal estate tax also apply in Pennsylvania?
Yes, separately. Pennsylvania's inheritance tax is a state-level tax paid by the beneficiary based on their relationship to the deceased. Federal estate tax is a completely separate tax paid by the estate itself, and only applies if the total estate exceeds $15,000,000 (2026, per individual). Fewer than 1% of estates owe federal estate tax, but it's worth checking if the estate is large. Use the federal estate tax calculator above to check.
Is there a discount for paying Pennsylvania inheritance tax early?
Yes. 5% discount on the total tax due if paid within 3 months of the date of death.