How much is the current federal estate tax rate and when does taxing start ?

Public Comments

1. The maximum rate is shown below, and depends on the year of death. The tax is due 9 months from date of death by filing Form 706. A 6 month extension may be requested. For estates of decedents dying, and gifts made, after 2002, the maximum rate for the estate tax and the gift tax is as follows. Maximum Estate and Gift Tax Rates Year Maximum Tax Rate 2003 49% 2004 48% 2005 47% 2006 46% 2007, 2008, and 2009 45%