German Inheritance Tax – Basic Calculator
Estimate German inheritance tax (Erbschaftsteuer). Select the relationship; the calculator will auto-apply the correct tax class and allowance.
Result
This is a simplified estimate. It does not include special reliefs (family home/business), §19(3) “jump relief”, pension allowances, valuation nuances, or treaty effects. Please contact us for precise planning and filings.
Need help filing in Germany or structuring cross-border estates?
Sesch Group GmbH WPG prepares German inheritance tax returns, advises on Treuhandstiftungen (we can act as trustee), and serves as executor in Germany. Book a consultation.
Inheritance Tax Calculator – Frequently Asked Questions
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The calculator provides a basic estimate using the German tax class system, allowances, and statutory rates. It does not replace an official tax assessment, which may include special reliefs, treaty adjustments, and valuation rules.
When you select a relationship, the calculator automatically applies the standard Freibetrag: spouse €500,000, child €400,000, grandchild €200,000, parent €100,000, siblings and others €20,000.
No. Reliefs for family homes or business property are not included. These depend on conditions like continued residence or business retention. For such cases, professional calculation is required.
The estimate is useful for orientation. However, cross-border inheritances often trigger both German and U.S. obligations. Treaty credits and filings (e.g., IRS Form 3520) are not reflected in this calculator.
Class I: Spouse/registered partner, children (including adopted and stepchildren), grandchildren, and parents if inheriting directly from a child.
Class II: Parents (in other cases), siblings, nieces, nephews, stepparents, sons/daughters-in-law, parents-in-law, and divorced spouses.
Class III: All other heirs (friends, distant relatives, unrelated persons, companies).
Sesch Group GmbH WPG (taxrep.de) prepares official German inheritance tax returns, acts as Treuhänder for Treuhandstiftungen, and serves as executor. See our German tax services or contact us.
Want certainty beyond estimates? Book a consultation with Sesch Group GmbH WPG – we handle German inheritance tax returns and cross-border estate planning end-to-end.