If inherited money has gone through probate hasn't it already been taxed?

Answer 1

Not necessarily Inherited money is not taxable, so the issue is not that it has already been taxed. The IRS does not consider it taxable income. On the other hand, any interest earned on the inherited money during administration IS taxable. That money is considered income and the estate must pay the income tax on it or the estate distributes that interest to the beneficiaries prior to the close of the estate and the beneficiaries have to declare that as income.