13 US States With the Highest Death Taxes

February 6, 2023 · Taxes

rhode island, death tax — Photo by Sean Pavone from Shutterstock

12. Rhode Island

Estate tax: Yes
Estate tax rates: 0.8%-16%
Estate tax exemption level: $1,733,264

Although Rhode Island adjusts its estate tax threshold every year for inflation, it still has a very low exemption. At only $1,733,264 for 2023, the Ocean State’s exemption amount is one of only three in the US, which is less than $2 million.

If an estate is worth more than $1,733,264, a progressive tax rate ranging between 0.8% and 16% will determine how much you owe.

A horizontal bar chart showing the structure of Washington state's estate tax with a highlighted top rate. — This chart outlines Washington’s tiered estate tax rates, showing a top rate of twenty percent for legacies.

13. Washington

Estate tax: Yes
Estate tax rates: 10%-20%
Estate tax exemption level: $2.193 million

A death tax is imposed by Washington on estates worth $2.193 million or more. The exemption amount is subject to adjustment annually for inflation. The estate tax rates in this state are progressive and range between 10% and 20%. Washington also offers an extra $2.5 million in deductions for family-owned businesses worth less than $6 million.

You may also want to read 8 Tax Season Preparation Steps (2023).