Inheritance Tax – Pittsburgh, PA

Inheritance Tax Department

Register of Wills – Agent for the Commonwealth

The Inheritance Tax Department, located in Room 216 of the City-County Building, operates under the Allegheny County Register of Wills. The Register of Wills acts as the authorized agent for the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue to collect inheritance taxes for the state. This office is the primary point of contact for personal representatives and attorneys filing tax returns (REV-1500) for the estates of decedents who resided in Allegheny County.

• Tax Filing: Receives and processes Pennsylvania Inheritance Tax Returns, which are generally due within nine months of the date of death.
• Payment Collection: Accepts tax payments and issues receipts. Note that payments for the state tax are made to the Register of Wills as Agent.
• Record Keeping: Maintains records of tax filings and appraisements associated with probate estates.

Deadlines and Requirements

Timely filing is crucial to avoid penalties and interest. A discount is often available for payments made within three months of the decedent’s death. The office provides specific forms required for the administration of estates, though complex tax matters usually require the assistance of an estate attorney. Visitors should be aware that the office has specific payment policies, often refusing personal checks for certain fees.