The One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) increased the federal estate tax exemption to $15 million per person and $30 million for married couples, effective as of January 1, 2026.

Previously, the exemption had been $13.99 million for individuals and $27.98 million for married couples in 2025 (filing in 2026), and was set to revert to approximately $7 million and $14 million in 2026 (filing in 2027). The OBBBA makes the higher exemption permanent and indexes it for inflation after 2026.

Have questions or concerns about estate taxes and how the OBBBA impacts them? Don’t hesitate to reach out any time. Your local Jackson Hewitt Tax Pro is here all year and ready to help. Find tax services near you, then walk in or book now.

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Sharon Brucker, CPA Senior Tax Research Analyst Published on: October 22, 2026

*This content is for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to be comprehensive and should not be construed as professional tax or financial advice for any specific individual tax situation. Taxpayers should always consult a qualified professional for individual guidance. This information constitutes a solicitation under the Treasury Department's Circular 230. Most offices are independently owned and operated.