Do states have their own estate or inheritance taxes?

Yes, and they often bite long before the federal estate tax does. A dozen or so states plus Washington, D.C. impose their own estate tax, frequently with exemptions far lower than the federal $13.99 million – some start around $1 to $2 million, so a paid-off home plus retirement savings can be enough to trigger it. Separately, a handful of states levy an inheritance tax, which is paid by the heir based on how closely related they are to the deceased; spouses and children are usually exempt or lightly taxed, while distant relatives and non-relatives pay more. A few states have both. Importantly, these taxes are based on where the deceased lived (and sometimes where property is located), not just federal rules. If you live in or own property in a high-tax state, factor this in. See wealthserene.com/assessments/estate-readiness.