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Early in June, we posted a blog entry indicating how Ohio was moving closer to an Estate Tax Repeal.  With the signing of the biennial budget by Governor Kasich last Thursday, June 30, 2011, repeal is now official!  The Ohio Estate Tax has been eliminated effective January 1, 2013.

Previously, Ohio held the dubious distinction of having the lowest state estate tax exemption amount in the country, at $338,333.  That distinction will soon belong to New Jersey, with an estate exemption amount of $675,000.

We don’t know exactly how local governments will react to this change. It is projected that, over the long term, additional revenue to the state will be generated as a result of Ohioans not relocating to other states to avoid the estate tax.  This, in turn, will have the effect of feeding the Ohio economy and job market, making up for the lost estate tax revenue.

Keep in mind though, that deaths occurring in 2011 and 2012 will still be subject to Ohio Estate tax at a potential rate of as much as 7%.

Needless to say, you should contact us or your estate attorney to determine how this change may affect your current estate plan.