Probate & Inheritance Tax

Serving Luzerne County and All of Northeastern Pennsylvania

Dealing with probate and Pennsylvania’s inheritance tax can feel overwhelming—especially while grieving. I help families handle these legal and financial steps with clarity, respect, and dependable local guidance.

Know What to Expect After a Loss

When a loved one passes away, the estate often needs to go through probate—the legal process of paying debts and distributing assets. But in Pennsylvania, heirs may also have to deal with something else: the inheritance tax.

At The Law Offices of Robert S. Betnar, I help clients across Luzerne County and all of Northeastern Pennsylvania understand what’s required, avoid common mistakes, and move forward with peace of mind. Whether you’re serving as an executor or simply trying to understand what your family owes, I’m here to simplify the process and protect your interests.

What I Help You Navigate

Probate Administration

I guide executors through every step of the probate process, from court filings to estate distribution.

Filing the Pennsylvania Inheritance Tax Return

I help you complete and submit the REV-1500 form correctly and on time.

Tax Rate Explanation & Calculation

I explain how inheritance tax works in Pennsylvania and help determine what your family may owe.

Executor Support

If you’ve been named as executor, I assist with everything from inventorying assets to paying final bills.

Spouse, Sibling & Heir Exemptions

I help identify which heirs are fully or partially exempt from the inheritance tax based on their relationship to the deceased.

Estate Planning to Reduce Tax Impact

For families thinking ahead, I offer estate planning services that can help minimize or avoid future inheritance tax obligations.

Pennsylvania Inheritance Tax Explained

What You Need to Know

Pennsylvania is one of the few states that still collects an inheritance tax—and it applies whether or not an estate goes through probate. The rate depends on your relationship to the deceased and can impact how much you receive.

Spouses Are Fully Exempt

Transfers to a surviving spouse are not taxed under Pennsylvania law.

Siblings Pay 12%; Others Pay 15%

Siblings and unrelated heirs pay higher rates, which can significantly impact inheritances.

Children & Grandchildren Pay 4.5%

Direct descendants pay this lower rate on the value of what they inherit.

Tax Is Due Within Nine Months

The Pennsylvania inheritance tax return must be filed within nine months of the date of death to avoid penalties and interest.

Questions About Probate or Inheritance Tax?

I’ve Got Answers

  • Who pays the inheritance tax in Pennsylvania?

    In general, the person receiving the inheritance is responsible for paying the tax, but in many cases the estate covers it before assets are distributed. I help determine the best approach based on the estate’s size, the heirs involved, and how the assets are structured. Every situation is different, and I’ll make sure you understand your obligations clearly.

  • How much will I owe in inheritance tax?

    That depends on your relationship to the deceased and what you’re inheriting. Children and grandchildren typically pay 4.5%, while siblings pay 12%, and more distant heirs pay 15%. I’ll walk you through the specifics of your case and help you understand what applies to you under Pennsylvania law. My goal is to ensure there are no surprises during this already difficult time.

  • Can I reduce or avoid inheritance tax?

    Yes, with the right estate planning, you may be able to reduce or even eliminate inheritance tax. Lifetime gifts, properly structured trusts, and other planning strategies can make a big difference. I offer estate planning services throughout Luzerne County and Northeastern Pennsylvania to help families protect their assets and reduce tax burdens.

  • What happens if we miss the inheritance tax deadline?

    The inheritance tax return must be filed within nine months of the date of death. Filing late can result in penalties and interest. If you act within three months, you may qualify for a discount. I help keep you on track, manage the timeline, and make sure everything is filed properly and on time so you don’t miss important deadlines.

  • Does probate affect the inheritance tax?

    Probate and inheritance tax are separate but related. Probate handles the legal transfer of property, while the inheritance tax applies to what the heirs receive. Both may be necessary, depending on the estate. I guide families through both processes to make things as smooth and stress-free as possible.