Inheritance and estate tax: what couples need to know
Inheritance and estate tax explained for couples, with a worked example, a checklist and the mistakes to avoid.
Why this matters for couples
Couples can sometimes choose how to file or split income, and simple calculations show which option saves more.
Worked example
Here is the calculation with sample figures. Change any number in the Inheritance Tax Calculator to run your own.
| Amount | 1,000,000.00 |
| Deductions / allowance | 406,250.00 |
| Tax rate (%) | 40% |
| Taxable income | 593,750.00 |
|---|---|
| Tax | 237,500.00 |
| Net amount | 762,500.00 |
Inheritance and estate tax: how it works
Inheritance or estate tax is charged on the value passed on at death above an exempt amount.
Exempt amounts, rates and who pays vary sharply by country.
A second example with larger figures
Scaling the inputs up shows how the result moves. Percentages stay the same, so the tax grows in proportion to the amount it is applied to.
| Amount | 3,000,000.00 |
| Deductions / allowance | 1,218,750.00 |
| Tax rate (%) | 40% |
| Taxable income | 1,781,250.00 |
|---|---|
| Tax | 712,500.00 |
| Net amount | 2,287,500.00 |
Using the calculator step by step
- Open the Inheritance Tax Calculator.
- Enter your own figures on each numbered line.
- Set the rate to the one that applies to you. Defaults are examples, not advice.
- Read the result and the formula below it.
Key terms
- Standard rate
- The rate that applies to most goods and services unless a specific reduced rate, zero rate or exemption applies.
- Effective rate
- Total tax divided by total income, the average rate you actually pay.
- Net amount
- The amount before tax is added. On an invoice it is the figure the tax is calculated on.
- Exempt supply
- A sale that falls outside the tax entirely. No tax is charged and input tax usually cannot be reclaimed.
- Withholding
- Tax deducted at source, by an employer or payer, before the money reaches you.
A quick checklist for couples
- Value the estate.
- Apply exemptions and reliefs.
- Estimate tax on the excess.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Ignoring exemptions for spouses or charities.
- Using outdated thresholds.
Run your own numbers. The Inheritance Tax Calculator updates as you type and shows the formula it uses.
Frequently asked questions
Why should couples care about this?
Couples can sometimes choose how to file or split income, and simple calculations show which option saves more.
What is the quickest way to calculate it?
Use the Inheritance Tax Calculator: enter your figures and it shows the result and the formula.
Is this tax advice?
No. It is general information for planning. Rules differ by country and change over time, so confirm with your tax authority or a qualified adviser.
This article is general information for planning, not tax advice. Rates and rules change; confirm with your tax authority or a qualified adviser.