Big Picture Retirement

Unless you're listening to this while flying in your own Gulfstream, federal estate taxes probably aren't something you need to worry about. In 2026, they only apply to estates over $15 million, or $30 million for married couples, so they impact a very small percentage of people. But state-level estate and inheritance taxes are a different story. In this episode, we break down how these lesser-known taxes work, which states still impose them, and why they can catch even well-prepared retirees off guard. While many states have eliminated these taxes to keep retirees from leaving, 12 states plus Washington, D.C. still have estate taxes, and five have inheritance taxes. Maryland is the only state that has both. If your goal is to pass on wealth efficiently, where you live could matter more than you think. Although this show does not provide specific tax, legal, or financial advice, you can engage Devin or John through their individual firms.