Articles

When Is an Estate Plan Subject to State Death Taxes?

Most people have heard of “estate taxes,” but what many don’t realize is that state death taxes can apply even when federal estate taxes do not. These state-level taxes—sometimes called inheritance taxes, estate taxes, or transfer taxes—vary widely depending on where you live (or own property). Understanding whether your estate plan could trigger state death taxes is essential for protecting your heirs and avoiding unnecessary tax burdens. Let’s break it down in a way that’s easy to understand.