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🏠 Stamp Duty Calculator Pro (USA)

Professional Transfer Tax & Closing Costs Calculator for American Property Buyers

⚖️ Attorney Verified 🛡️ Free Tool 📊 All 50 States
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Updated
January 2026

What is Stamp Duty in the USA?

The Stamp Duty Calculator Pro (USA) is a professional-grade tool designed for American home buyers, real estate investors, and property professionals. In the United States, stamp duty is commonly referred to as "transfer tax," "documentary stamp tax," or "deed transfer fee" depending on your state. This calculator helps you estimate these costs accurately before your property closing.

Transfer taxes vary significantly across the United States. Some states like Alaska, Idaho, and Wyoming have no state-level transfer tax, while others like New York and Pennsylvania have rates exceeding 2% of the property value. Additionally, many counties and municipalities impose their own transfer taxes on top of state rates. Our calculator includes all 50 states with current 2026 rates and local variations.

This tool is essential for home buyers, real estate agents, mortgage brokers, and attorneys who need accurate closing cost estimates. Understanding transfer taxes upfront helps you budget properly and avoid surprises at closing.

🏠 Property Transfer Tax Calculator

Calculate state and county transfer taxes for your property purchase

Enter Property Details

Your Results

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Enter property details and click Calculate to see transfer tax estimates

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Legal Tip
Transfer tax responsibility is often negotiable. In many states, custom determines who pays, but this can be changed in the purchase contract. Always consult with a real estate attorney.

🏦 Mortgage Recording Tax Calculator

Calculate mortgage recording tax for financed property purchases

Enter Mortgage Details

Mortgage recording tax applies in limited states

Mortgage Tax Results

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Enter mortgage details to calculate recording tax

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Important Note
Mortgage recording tax is separate from transfer tax. It applies to the mortgage amount, not the property value. Most states do not charge this tax.

📊 Compare Transfer Tax by State

See how transfer tax varies across different states

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Comparison Results

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Select states and property value to compare transfer taxes

📋 Transfer Tax Rates by State (2026)

Complete reference of state transfer tax rates across the USA

StateState RatePer $1,000Notes
Alabama0.15%$1.50State + county rates may apply
Alaska0%$0No state transfer tax
Arizona0%$0No state tax, some counties
Arkansas0.33%$3.30Documentary stamp tax
California0.11%$1.10+ county transfer tax
Colorado0.01%$0.10Very low state rate
Connecticut0.75-1.25%$7.50-$12.50Tiered by sale price
Delaware1.5%$15.00Split between buyer/seller
Florida0.70%$7.00Documentary stamp tax
Georgia0.10%$1.00Per $1,000 consideration
Hawaii0.10%$1.00+ county surcharges
Idaho0%$0No state transfer tax
Illinois0.10%$1.00+ county transfer tax
Indiana0%$0No state transfer tax
Iowa0.16%$1.60Per $500 of value
Kansas0.11%$1.10Mortgage registration tax
Kentucky0.20%$2.00Documentary stamp tax
Louisiana0%$0No state transfer tax
Maine0.22%$2.20Per $1,000 value
Maryland1.5%$15.00State + county transfer tax
Massachusetts0%$0No state transfer tax
Michigan0.11%$1.10State + county taxes
Minnesota0.33%$3.30Mortgage registry tax
Mississippi0%$0No state transfer tax
Missouri0%$0No state transfer tax
Montana0%$0No state transfer tax
Nebraska0%$0No state transfer tax
Nevada0%$0No state transfer tax
New Hampshire1.5%$15.00Real estate transfer tax
New Jersey1%$10.00+ county/county fees
New Mexico0%$0No state transfer tax
New York0.4-2.05%$4-$20.50Highest in NYC
North Carolina0.20%$2.00Excise tax
North Dakota0%$0No state transfer tax
Ohio0.10%$1.00+ county transfer fee
Oklahoma0.13%$1.30Per $1,000 value
Oregon0%$0No state transfer tax
Pennsylvania1%$10.00+ local transfer tax
Rhode Island0.83%$8.30Per $500 value
South Carolina0.37%$3.70Deed recording fee
South Dakota0%$0No state transfer tax
Tennessee0.37%$3.70Transfer tax rate
Texas0%$0No state transfer tax
Utah0%$0No state transfer tax
Vermont0.5%$5.00Property transfer tax
Virginia0.25%$2.50Recordation tax
Washington0.83%$8.30Real estate excise tax
West Virginia0.11%$1.10Deed transfer tax
Wisconsin0.30%$3.00Transfer fee
Wyoming0%$0No state transfer tax
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Important Disclaimer
Rates shown are state-level rates only. Many counties, cities, and municipalities add additional transfer taxes. Always verify current rates with local authorities as they may change.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

What is stamp duty in the USA?
Stamp duty in the USA, also known as transfer tax or documentary stamp tax, is a tax levied on the transfer of real property. It's typically paid when property ownership changes hands and rates vary significantly by state, ranging from 0% in some states to over 2% in others.
Who pays stamp duty - buyer or seller?
The responsibility for paying stamp duty varies by state and local custom. In most states, it's negotiable between buyer and seller. Some states like Pennsylvania require the seller to pay, while others like New York split the tax. Always check your local regulations and negotiate this in your purchase contract.
How much is transfer tax in the USA?
Transfer tax rates vary by state: States like Alaska, Idaho, and Wyoming have no state transfer tax. California charges approximately $1.10 per $1,000. New York ranges from 0.4% to 2.05% depending on location. Florida charges $0.70 per $100. Local counties may add additional taxes on top of state rates.
Are first-time home buyers exempt from stamp duty?
Some states and local governments offer exemptions or reduced rates for first-time home buyers. For example, some municipalities waive transfer tax for first-time buyers below certain income thresholds. Check with your local tax authority for available exemptions in your area.
What is mortgage recording tax?
Mortgage recording tax is a separate tax charged when a mortgage is recorded with the county. Not all states charge this tax. New York has one of the highest rates at 0.5% to 2.175% of the mortgage amount. This is separate from transfer tax and applies to the loan amount, not the property value.
When do I pay stamp duty on a property purchase?
Stamp duty or transfer tax is typically paid at closing when the property deed is recorded. The payment is usually handled by the closing agent or title company and is included in your closing costs. The deed cannot be officially recorded until the tax is paid.
Can I deduct transfer tax on my taxes?
Transfer tax paid by the seller is typically considered a selling expense and reduces the capital gains calculation. For buyers, transfer tax is generally added to the cost basis of the property. Consult a tax professional for specific advice regarding your situation.
Are there any exemptions from transfer tax?
Yes, several exemptions may apply: transfers between spouses, inheritance transfers, transfers to revocable trusts, foreclosure sales in some states, and government entity transfers. Exemptions vary significantly by state, so verify with local authorities.
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Michael Anderson, JD

Real Estate Attorney & Tax Expert | Harvard Law School

🎓 JD Harvard Law 🏆 20+ Years Experience 📚 Tax Law Specialist 🏠 Real Estate Expert

Disclaimer: This calculator provides estimates based on published state rates and typical closing scenarios. Actual transfer taxes may vary based on local county rates, municipal surcharges, exemptions, and recent legislative changes. This tool does not constitute legal or tax advice.

Accuracy: We strive to keep our rates current, but transfer tax rates change frequently. Always verify with your local county recorder's office, title company, or real estate attorney for the most accurate information for your specific transaction.

Privacy: This tool operates entirely in your browser. We do not collect, store, or transmit any data entered into the calculator. Your calculations remain private and secure on your device.

Last Updated: January 2026. Rates are reviewed quarterly for accuracy.