estate tax

noun

1. a tax imposed on a decedent's property, assessed on the gross estate prior to distribution to the heirs.

Word History and Origins

Origin of estate tax¹

First recorded in 1905–10

Example Sentences

Texas, in addition to having no personal income tax or estate tax, has a $7.25 minimum wage and a right-to-work law.

From Los Angeles Times

The single most indefensible component of the tax bill congressional Republicans are trying to renew is a cut in the estate tax.

From Salon

This means those assets can be exempt from estate taxes, which can range from 18% to 40% of the estate’s value.

From Salon

That includes higher standard deductions, a lower top marginal tax rate, bigger child tax credits, lower estate taxes and certain deductions tailored for small businesses.

From Los Angeles Times

That’s also the bad news, costing them thousands more in real estate taxes and leaving less for discretionary spending.

From Seattle Times

Related Words

• death tax 
• inheritance tax