Estate Tax · TRAIN Law (RA 10963) · 2026

Estate Tax Calculator Philippines

Calculate Philippine estate tax under TRAIN Law with the Estate Tax Calculator Philippines.

Total FMV of all assets at time of death.

Primary residence within PH. Cap: ₱10,000,000.

Cap: ₱200,000.

Incurred within 1 year before death. Cap: ₱500,000.

Date of death regime

Estate tax due (6% flat)

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Gross estate
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Standard deduction
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Family home deduction
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Funeral deduction
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Medical deduction
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Other deductions
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Total deductions
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Net taxable estate
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Net distributable to heirs
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What Estate Tax Calculator Does?

The Estate Tax Calculator Philippines estimates the estate tax due in the Philippines by processing key financial inputs. The Estate Tax Calculator Philippines accepts the gross estate value and chosen deductions, such as those for family homes and medical expenses. The Estate Tax Calculator Philippines applies the current TRAIN Law rate to compute the final tax liability.

The Estate Tax Calculator Philippines automates the subtraction of allowable deductions, calculates the taxable base, and multiplies by the 6% estate tax rate. The Estate Tax Calculator Philippines then displays the tax due and the net distributable estate, which keeps users aligned with the correct post-TRAIN formula. The process removes manual computation errors and produces a streamlined and accurate tax calculation.

Inputs Estate Tax Calculator Philippines Accepts

The Estate Tax Calculator Philippines requires three inputs to calculate estate tax: gross estate value at the time of death, allowable deductions, and date of death. Each input shapes the estate tax liability under current regulations. The three required inputs are described in the subsections below.

  • Gross Estate Value at Time of Death: Total fair market value of all assets owned by the decedent — the starting point for the calculation.

  • Allowable Deductions: ₱5M standard, ₱10M family home, ₱200K funeral, ₱500K medical, plus debts and mortgages.

  • Date of Death: Determines whether the pre-TRAIN graduated rates or the post-TRAIN 6% flat rate applies.

  • Gross Estate Value at Time of Death

    The gross estate value at the time of death represents the total fair market value of all assets owned by the decedent. The Estate Tax Calculator Philippines uses the gross estate amount as the starting point for calculating the estate tax and serves as the base figure from which allowable deductions are subtracted to determine the net taxable estate.

  • Allowable Deductions (Standard, Family Home, Funeral, Medical)

    The Estate Tax Calculator Philippines uses the allowable deductions field to adjust the gross estate value and determine the net estate for tax purposes. The allowable deductions field includes the standard deduction of ₱5,000,000, a family home deduction up to ₱10,000,000, funeral expenses up to ₱200,000, and medical expenses up to ₱500,000.

  • Date of Death (Pre-TRAIN Versus Post-TRAIN Treatment)

    The date of death field in the Estate Tax Calculator Philippines determines the applicable estate tax regime. Estates of decedents who died before January 1, 2018, are subject to the graduated rates of the old law. Estates of decedents who died on or after January 1, 2018, are taxed under the TRAIN Law's 6% flat rate. The Date of Death input lets the Estate Tax Calculator Philippines apply the correct tax framework.

How to Read Estate Tax Calculator Philippines Result

The Estate Tax Calculator Philippines provides a line-by-line breakdown of your estimated estate tax liability. The result begins with the Gross Estate Value, which reflects the total value of the decedent's assets. The Allowable Deductions are itemized next, including standard deductions, family home deductions, and other applicable expenses. The deductions are subtracted from the gross estate to determine the Net Taxable Estate.

When the net taxable estate is ₱200,000 or less, no estate tax is due. For amounts exceeding ₱200,000, the Estate Tax Calculator Philippines applies a flat 6% tax rate to compute the Estate Tax Due, which indicates the amount payable to the Bureau of Internal Revenue. The output helps heirs see financial obligations before proceeding with asset transfer.

Formula

What is the TRAIN Law Flat Estate Tax Formula?

The TRAIN Law (Republic Act No. 10963) amends the National Internal Revenue Code (NIRC) of 1997 to establish a flat estate tax rate in the Philippines. Under the TRAIN Law, the estate tax equals a flat rate of 6% on the net taxable estate exceeding ₱200,000.

To determine the net taxable estate, subtract allowable deductions from the gross estate value. The deductions include a standard deduction of ₱5 million, a family home deduction up to ₱10 million, and actual funeral and medical expenses within defined ceilings. The flat-rate system, effective for deaths occurring on or after January 1, 2018, simplifies estate tax calculations and replaces the previous progressive rates, as detailed in Section 84 of the NIRC.

Computing the Net Taxable Estate

The Estate Tax Calculator Philippines determines the net taxable estate by subtracting allowable deductions from the gross estate value. The allowable deductions include the standard deduction, family home deduction, funeral expenses, and medical expenses. The net taxable estate serves as the basis for calculating the estate tax due under the 6% TRAIN Law rate.

When the Estate Tax Amnesty Reduces Penalty Exposure

Estate tax amnesty reduces penalty exposure when the decedent passed away on or before December 31, 2017, and the estate remains unsettled or has outstanding tax liabilities. Heirs can settle the estate taxes under amnesty rules and avoid the usual delinquency penalties.

The amnesty program substantially lowers the amount due and lets families manage estate obligations without the burden of compounded penalties, which supports smoother property title transfers.

BIR Form 1801 and the Electronic Certificate Authorizing Registration (eCAR)

BIR Form 1801, the Estate Tax Return, is a required document for reporting and paying estate tax in the Philippines. Executors, administrators, or legal heirs must file BIR Form 1801 to declare the decedent's gross estate, claim allowable deductions, and compute the net taxable estate subject to the 6% flat rate under the TRAIN Law.

BIR Form 1801 must be submitted to the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) within one year from the decedent's date of death. Upon successful filing and payment, the BIR issues the Electronic Certificate Authorizing Registration (eCAR), which is required for transferring the deceased's property titles to the heirs' names. Without the eCAR, heirs cannot legally transfer real estate, bank accounts, stocks, or other registered assets into ownership.

Standard Estate Tax Deductions Under TRAIN

The TRAIN Law provides defined deductions to reduce the taxable estate in the Philippines. A standard deduction of ₱5,000,000 is applied to the gross estate without itemization. A family home deduction of up to ₱10,000,000 is available.

Other allowable deductions include funeral expenses up to ₱200,000 and medical expenses up to ₱500,000 incurred within one year before death. The TRAIN deductions collectively lower the taxable base and keep the estate tax calculated only on the net estate value.

  • Standard deduction ₱5,000,000 Automatic, no itemization required
  • Family home deduction Up to ₱10,000,000 Primary residence within the Philippines at time of death
  • Funeral expenses Up to ₱200,000 Actual expenses, capped
  • Medical expenses Up to ₱500,000 Incurred within 1 year before death

Common Estate Tax Filing Mistakes by Heirs

Estate tax filing errors by heirs can lead to substantial delays and penalties. One frequent mistake is missing the one-year filing deadline from the date of death, which produces automatic surcharges and interest. Heirs undervalue the gross estate by omitting intangible assets such as bank deposits and shares of stock, or by using outdated property valuations instead of the fair market value at the date of death.

Miscalculating allowable deductions is another common error, such as claiming the full ₱10 million family home deduction when the actual value is lower, or exceeding the ₱500,000 cap on medical expenses and ₱200,000 limit on funeral expenses. Incomplete documentation, such as missing certified true copies of the death certificate or tax identification numbers, can delay the issuance of the Electronic Certificate Authorizing Registration (eCAR) and prevent property transfer.

How to Compute Estate Tax on Net Taxable Estate in the Philippines

Computing the estate tax on the net taxable estate in the Philippines follows four steps. The four steps are listed below.

  1. 01

    Determine the gross estate value

    List all assets owned by the decedent at the time of death, valued at their Fair Market Value (FMV).

  2. 02

    Calculate the allowable deductions

    Include a standard deduction of ₱5,000,000, a family home deduction up to ₱10,000,000, and other deductions such as funeral and medical expenses, claims against the estate, and unpaid mortgages.

  3. 03

    Subtract deductions from the gross estate

    Subtract the allowable deductions from the gross estate to derive the net taxable estate.

  4. 04

    Apply the flat 6% tax rate

    Apply 6% to the net taxable estate when it exceeds ₱200,000. Estates at or below the ₱200,000 threshold are exempt from tax.

The four-step process is standardized under the TRAIN Law (Republic Act No. 10963) and produces a straightforward calculation for estate tax obligations.

Estate tax sits separately from the deceased's final-year income tax obligations. To compute that personal income tax for the year of death, head to our Tax Calculator Philippines.

How to Apply Standard Deduction (₱5M) and Family Home Deduction (₱10M)

Applying the standard deduction and family home deduction follows a systematic approach. First, identify the gross estate value of the decedent. Subtract the ₱5 million standard deduction, which applies automatically without documentation. Apply the family home deduction of up to ₱10 million.

The family home deduction is contingent on the property being the decedent's primary residence at the time of death and located within the Philippines. Confirm that the home's fair market value does not exceed the ₱10 million cap. When the gross estate is less than the combined deductions, apply each deduction up to the available balance. The two deductions reduce the taxable base, after which the remaining net taxable estate is subject to the 6% estate tax as stipulated by the TRAIN Law.

How Estate Tax Amnesty Reduces Penalties for Filipino Heirs

The Estate Tax Amnesty in the Philippines offers substantial relief for heirs dealing with unpaid estate taxes. Under Republic Act No. 11213, heirs of decedents who passed away on or before December 31, 2017, can settle estate taxes by paying a flat 6% amnesty tax on the net estate.

The amnesty program waives all surcharges and interest and substantially reduces the financial burden on heirs. An estate valued at ₱7,300,000 would face surcharges and interest, but under the amnesty, the heirs pay only ₱438,000. The amnesty produces savings of approximately ₱2 million and serves as a primary tool for families looking to resolve longstanding estate tax liabilities without additional penalties.

How to File BIR Form 1801 and Obtain the eCAR

To file BIR Form No. 1801, the estate tax return, the executor, administrator, or any legal heir submits BIR Form 1801 to the Bureau of Internal Revenue within one year from the decedent's date of death. BIR Form 1801 declares the gross estate, deductions, and net taxable estate of the deceased.

After filing and paying the necessary estate tax, the BIR issues the electronic Certificate Authorizing Registration (eCAR). The eCAR is required for transferring ownership of inherited property to the heirs. Failure to comply within the deadline may result in penalties, although extensions can be granted under certain conditions.

How Much Estate Tax Should Filipino Heirs Pay in 2026?

In 2026, Filipino heirs pay a flat 6% estate tax on the net taxable estate. A net estate of ₱10 million results in a ₱600,000 tax liability. The actual tax amount depends on the net estate value after allowable deductions.

Deductions include a ₱5 million standard deduction, a ₱10 million family home deduction, and other allowable deductions such as funeral expenses (up to ₱200,000) and medical expenses (up to ₱500,000). Estates valued at or below ₱200,000 are exempt from estate tax under the TRAIN Law.

What Is Philippine Estate Tax?

Philippine estate tax is a levy on the transfer of a deceased person's net estate to heirs or beneficiaries. The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) collects Philippine estate tax before the estate can be legally settled and transferred.

Under the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion (TRAIN) Law, the estate tax is a flat 6% on net estates exceeding ₱200,000 and simplifies previous graduated rates. Philippine estate tax applies to both resident and non-resident decedents and emphasizes the privilege of transferring property upon death.

Estates of retired decedents often include the lump-sum retirement payout received under RA 7641, which forms part of the gross estate value. For computing that retirement amount and its NIRC §32(B)(6)(a) exemption, see our Retirement Pay Tax Calculator.

How Philippine Estate Tax Differs From Donor's Tax on Lifetime Gratuitous Transfers

Philippine estate tax applies to property transferred upon death, while donor's tax is levied on gifts made during the donor's lifetime. Estate tax is calculated on the net estate value and paid by heirs or executors. Donor's tax is imposed on the gross gift value and is the responsibility of the donor.

The estate tax is filed within a year of the decedent's death, while the donor's tax must be filed within 30 days of the gift.

How Does Philippine Estate Tax Work?

Philippine estate tax is imposed by the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) on the net estate of a deceased individual. The executor, administrator, or heirs file BIR Form 1801 and pay the 6% flat tax on the net taxable estate within one year of the decedent's death. The estate tax equals the gross estate value minus allowable deductions.

The BIR requires the estate tax to be settled before issuing an electronic Certificate Authorizing Registration (eCAR), which is required for transferring real property titles and other assets to the heirs. Failure to comply with filing and payment deadlines results in penalties, including interest and surcharges, and prevents heirs from legally consolidating ownership of the inherited property.

After heirs receive inherited property, any subsequent sale triggers separate capital gains tax obligations on the higher of selling price or zonal value. Heirs planning that sale can model the 6% tax with our Capital Gains Tax Calculator.

What is the importance of Philippine Estate Tax?

Philippine estate tax matters for the legal transfer of a deceased person's assets to heirs. Philippine estate tax keeps properties, bank accounts, and other estate assets transferable and registrable without legal hindrance. Timely payment of Philippine estate tax prevents penalties and delays and protects inheritance value.

The revenue generated supports government operations and funds public services such as infrastructure, education, and healthcare. Compliance with estate tax obligations helps maintain family harmony by avoiding disputes and supports a smooth distribution of assets.

What Are the Types of Philippine Estate Tax?

Philippine estate tax is categorized based on the residency status of the decedent at the time of death. The two main types are estate tax on resident Filipino decedents and estate tax on non-resident decedents. Resident Filipino decedents are taxed on the worldwide estate, which includes all assets regardless of location. Non-resident decedents are taxed only on properties situated within the Philippines. Both types are subject to a flat 6% rate under the TRAIN Law, but the scope of taxable assets varies based on residency. The two types are described in the subsections below.

  • Estate Tax on Resident Filipino Decedents (Worldwide Estate)

    The estate tax on resident Filipino decedents covers the entire worldwide estate. The worldwide estate includes all properties and assets, whether located in the Philippines or abroad. The Estate Tax Calculator Philippines uses the worldwide estate information to determine the gross estate value and applies the 6% flat estate tax rate under the TRAIN Law to the net taxable estate after allowable deductions.

  • Estate Tax on Non-Resident Decedents (Philippine-Situs Estate Only)

    The estate tax for non-resident decedents applies only to assets located within the Philippines. The Philippine-situs estate includes real estate, tangible personal property, and shares in domestic corporations. The Estate Tax Calculator Philippines assesses the Philippine-situs assets (excluding any foreign holdings) to determine the taxable estate value. The estate tax rate of 6% is applied to the net taxable estate, aligned with the TRAIN Law provisions.

Who Pays or Needs Philippine Estate Tax?

The obligation to pay the Philippine estate tax falls on the heirs, executors, or administrators of the deceased's estate. Heirs, such as children inheriting a parent's property, settle the tax before transferring ownership. When a father leaves real estate to his children, they file the estate tax return and pay the 6% tax on the net estate.

Executors, designated in a will, manage estate settlement and confirm timely tax payment. Transferees, or individuals receiving property, are liable when the tax remains unpaid, since the Bureau of Internal Revenue requires compliance before property transfer.

Compliance

How BIR Enforces Philippine Estate Tax Compliance

The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) enforces estate tax compliance through several mechanisms. Heirs or estate representatives file the Estate Tax Return with supporting documents before transferring the title. The BIR checks valuations, deductions, and ownership documents to issue the tax clearance or Electronic Certificate Authorizing Registration (eCAR). Without the tax clearance or eCAR, the Registry of Deeds cannot complete the title transfer.

When discrepancies arise during audits, the BIR assesses deficiency taxes and applies surcharges and interest. Penalties for non-compliance include a 25% surcharge for late payment and a 12% annual interest on unpaid taxes. Full documentation, including death certificates and asset declarations, is required to validate deductions and verify gross estate values.

Beyond estate tax, the deceased's final year of employment income still falls under regular withholding tax rules. For that pay-period computation, run our Withholding Tax Calculator with the BIR Revised Withholding Tax Table.

How to Calculate Estate Tax in the Philippines?

Calculating estate tax in the Philippines follows a systematic process based on the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion (TRAIN) Law. The four steps are listed below.

01

1. Determine the Gross Estate Value

The gross estate includes all properties owned by the deceased at the time of death. The gross estate covers real, personal, tangible, and intangible assets, valued at fair market value.

02

2. Apply Allowable Deductions

Subtract allowable deductions from the gross estate. The allowable deductions include a standard deduction of ₱5,000,000, family home deduction up to ₱10,000,000, funeral expenses up to ₱200,000, medical expenses up to ₱500,000, and any debts or obligations of the estate.

03

3. Calculate the Net Taxable Estate

Subtract the total allowable deductions from the gross estate to determine the net taxable estate.

04

4. Apply the Estate Tax Rate

The estate tax equals a flat 6% on the net taxable estate when it exceeds ₱200,000. Estates valued at ₱200,000 or less are exempt from the estate tax.

For a gross estate of ₱20,000,000, after applying the standard deduction, family home deduction, and other allowable expenses, the net taxable estate may equal ₱4,300,000. Applying the 6% tax rate produces an estate tax of ₱258,000. The four-step process is governed by the TRAIN Law (Republic Act No. 10963), which amended Section 84 of the National Internal Revenue Code.

Estates that include inventory or business assets held by a VAT-registered enterprise still face VAT obligations during liquidation. Executors handling that side can apply the 12% rate through our VAT Calculator with the input/output method.

How much tax do I pay on an inherited property?

In the Philippines, the tax on an inherited property is calculated based on the net taxable estate value, not solely on the property itself. Under the TRAIN Law, the estate tax rate is a flat 6% of the net estate after allowable deductions. For a net taxable estate of ₱9,000,000, the estate tax equals approximately ₱540,000.

The precise tax liability depends on the total value of the estate and the deductions applied, such as the ₱5 million standard deduction and the ₱10 million family home deduction. Estates valued at or below ₱200,000 are exempt from estate tax.

What is the BIR estate tax rate?

The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) estate tax rate in the Philippines is a flat 6% on the net taxable estate exceeding ₱200,000. The 6% rate was established under the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion (TRAIN) Law (Republic Act No. 10963), effective from January 1, 2018. Estates valued at or below ₱200,000 are exempt from the tax.

The simplified 6% rate replaced the previous progressive rates, which ranged from 5% to 20%, and produces a more straightforward computation for heirs and executors. The 6% flat rate remains applicable as of 2026, which keeps estate tax obligations consistent for Filipino heirs.

Who is required to pay estate tax?

Estate tax in the Philippines is the responsibility of the executor or administrator of the deceased's estate. When no executor or administrator is appointed, the obligation falls to the heirs, beneficiaries, or transferees. When a deceased individual leaves behind real property and financial assets, the surviving relatives (such as children or a spouse) settle the estate tax before transferring ownership.

The legal requirement keeps all inheritors coordinating to fulfill the tax obligations and supports the legal transfer of assets. Failure to comply can prevent the registration of properties with the Register of Deeds or access to other inherited assets and effectively freezes the estate until the tax is paid.

Philippine Estate Tax in the Broader Philippine Wealth-Transfer and Inheritance-Tax Framework

The Philippine estate tax serves as a core component of the nation's wealth-transfer taxation system and complements other mechanisms such as the donor's tax. The estate tax applies to property transfers at death, while the donor's tax targets lifetime gratuitous transfers, which keeps wealth transferred either during life or upon death contributing to public revenue.

The dual approach under the Philippine tax system helps prevent tax avoidance through strategic timing of asset transfers. The estate tax and donor's tax together provide a full framework that supports equitable wealth distribution across generations, aligned with the principles set forth in the Civil Code regarding inheritance and succession.