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District of Columbia Gift Tax Guide (2026)

Everything you need to know about gift tax, estate tax, and inheritance tax in District of Columbia.

District of Columbia Tax Overview

State Gift Tax
No
State Estate Tax
Yes
Exemption: $4.71M (2024)
Inheritance Tax
No

DC has an estate tax but no separate gift or inheritance tax.

Federal Gift Tax in District of Columbia

Regardless of District of Columbia's state tax laws, the federal gift tax applies uniformly. For 2026:

Annual Exclusion
$19,000
per recipient
Lifetime Exemption
$15,000,000
per person

You can give up to $19,000 per person per year without any gift tax consequences. Gifts exceeding this amount count against your $15,000,000 lifetime exemption and require Form 709 filing.

Gift Tax Planning Tips for District of Columbia Residents

Use the annual exclusion to make tax-free gifts to family members each year

Pay tuition and medical bills directly to institutions for unlimited tax-free transfers

Consider gift splitting if married to double your annual exclusion

Consult with a local estate planning attorney about state-specific considerations

Be aware of District of Columbia's estate tax when planning lifetime gifts

Find Professionals in District of Columbia

Connect with estate planning attorneys and CPAs in District of Columbia who specialize in gift tax.

Calculate Your Gift Tax

Use our free calculator to determine your gift tax obligations.