Most Americans will never owe federal estate tax — the federal basic exclusion amount is $15,000,000 per person for 2026, according to the IRS. But Washington is one of a handful of states with its own estate tax, and its threshold is dramatically lower.
The Washington threshold
According to the Washington State Department of Revenue, the state estate tax exclusion amount is $3,000,000 for deaths occurring on or after July 1, 2026. Estates above the exclusion may owe tax at graduated rates. Washington’s estate tax law has changed several times recently, so always check the current WA DOR estate tax tables and consult an estate attorney for your situation.
What counts toward your estate
- Your home and any other real estate.
- Retirement accounts such as 401(k)s and IRAs.
- Brokerage and bank accounts.
- Business interests.
- Life insurance death benefits, depending on how the policy is owned.
Planning strategies to discuss with your attorney
Thoughtful planning can reduce taxes and — just as importantly — make sure your wishes are carried out smoothly. Common tools include wills and revocable living trusts, beneficiary designation reviews, lifetime gifting (the 2026 federal annual gift exclusion is $19,000 per recipient), charitable strategies, and structuring life insurance ownership so that proceeds provide liquidity for heirs.
It’s about more than taxes
Estate planning is the Legacy pillar — the moment everything you have built is passed on. Without a plan, families can face probate delays, family conflict, and decisions made by default rather than by design. With a plan, the next generation receives both your assets and your intentions.
- Inventory your assets and how each one is titled.
- Update beneficiaries after marriage, divorce, births, or deaths.
- Name guardians for minor children.
- Have documents properly signed and notarized.
- Review your plan every few years or after major life events.
We coordinate with qualified estate attorneys and CPAs — we do not draft legal documents or give legal advice. A consultation can help you understand where your family stands and which questions to bring to your attorney.
Content on this site is for educational purposes only and is not tax, legal, or investment advice. Consult a qualified tax professional or attorney regarding your specific situation. Insurance products are subject to underwriting; guarantees are based on the claims-paying ability of the issuing insurer. Projections are illustrative only.
