Estate and Inheritance Tax in Iowa

Iowa phased out its inheritance tax; it was fully eliminated for deaths on or after January 1, 2025.

State estate tax exemptions can be much lower than the federal exemption, so an estate that owes no federal tax may still owe state tax. Some states adjust their exemption each year for inflation, so check the amount for the year of death.

Real estate is generally taxed by the state where it is located. A person who lives in one state and owns land in another may need to consider the rules of both states, which is one reason some people hold out-of-state property in a living trust.

Estate and inheritance tax returns have filing deadlines and may require payment before the estate is closed. Executors often work with a tax professional to value assets, claim deductions such as the marital and charitable deductions, and file on time.