Inheritance Tax in Pennsylvania
Trusted Guidance from a Leading Estate Law Firm
Dealing with the loss of a loved one is never easy, and navigating Pennsylvania’s inheritance tax laws can make an already difficult time even more stressful. At The Law Offices of Anthony Urban, P.C., we’re here to help you manage the legal, financial, and emotional aspects of settling an estate. With over 60 years of experience, our team brings clarity, accuracy, and compassion to every client we serve in Schuylkill County, Northumberland County, and beyond.
What Is Inheritance Tax in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania is one of the few states that imposes an inheritance tax. This tax is applied to the value of assets transferred from a deceased individual to their heirs. The tax rate depends on the relationship between the deceased (the decedent) and the beneficiary:
- 0% – Transfers to a surviving spouse or to a parent from a child aged 21 or younger
- 4.5% – Transfers to direct descendants (children, grandchildren)
- 12% – Transfers to siblings
- 15% – Transfers to other heirs (nieces, nephews, friends, etc.)
The inheritance tax return (Form REV-1500) is due within nine months of the date of death. You may receive a 5% discount if the tax is paid within three months.
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Common Deductions & Exemptions
You may be able to reduce or eliminate some of the inheritance tax burden by applying legal deductions and exemptions. These may include:
- Reasonable funeral expenses
- Outstanding debts of the decedent
- Administrative costs (legal fees, executor expenses)
- Bequests to qualified charities
Our team will help ensure no opportunity to reduce your tax liability is overlooked.
How We Help
Our firm assists executors and administrators in preparing and filing inheritance tax returns and ensuring all deductions and exemptions are properly applied. We walk you through asset valuation, applicable tax rates, and payment procedures to ensure everything is completed accurately and on time. Our team stays up to date on evolving state laws and tax rulings to protect your interests.
Why Families Trust The Law Offices of Anthony Urban, P.C
Local Authority – Decades of service across Schuylkill and Northumberland Counties
Deep Legal Knowledge – We stay current with evolving PA tax laws
Personalized Attention – Your case is unique. So is our strategy.
Direct Access – Real people. Real answers. When you need them most.
Our firm has built a reputation on trust, results, and transparency. From the first phone call to the final paperwork, we stand by your side every step of the way.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is life insurance subject to inheritance tax in Pennsylvania?
No, as long as the proceeds are paid directly to a named beneficiary, life insurance is exempt from inheritance tax.
Can I deduct funeral expenses from the taxable estate?
Yes, reasonable funeral expenses and administrative costs can be deducted when calculating inheritance tax.
What if I miss the 9-month deadline for filing the inheritance tax return?
Late filings can result in interest and penalties. Timely filing is essential—we can help ensure deadlines are met.