arveavgiften

Arveavgiften, often translated as inheritance tax or estate tax, was a Norwegian tax levied on inherited assets. This tax applied to the value of an inheritance received by an individual from a deceased person. The tax rate and the tax-free threshold varied over time and depended on the relationship between the deceased and the heir. Close relatives, such as spouses and children, generally benefited from higher tax-free allowances and lower tax rates compared to more distant relatives or unrelated beneficiaries.

The primary purpose of the arveavgift was to redistribute wealth and ensure a fairer distribution of assets within society. It was also a source of revenue for the Norwegian state. The tax calculation involved assessing the total value of the deceased's estate and then determining the portion subject to taxation after deducting any applicable allowances. Debts and certain expenses related to the deceased's estate, such as funeral costs and administrative fees, could typically be deducted before the taxable value was calculated.

The arveavgift was a subject of considerable political debate in Norway for many years, with arguments often centering on its impact on family businesses, the motivation for saving and investment, and its perceived fairness. Ultimately, the Norwegian government decided to abolish the arveavgift, with the last tax being levied on inheritances received in 2014. Following its abolition, the focus shifted to other forms of taxation and wealth distribution mechanisms.