Abstract: The compact tailgate lifter includes a pair of lifting assemblies. A first lifting assembly is attached to one side wall of a dump box. A second lifting assembly is attached to the other side wall of the dump box. The first and second lifting assemblies are attached to opposing ends of a tailgate. Each lifting assembly includes a base, pivot arm, tailgate plate, actuation device, and a plurality of pins. The tailgate plate is removably retained within the pivoting arm. A rear of the pivoting arm is pivotally attached to a rear of the base. One end of the actuation device is pivotally attached to a rear of the base and the other end thereof is pivotally attached to a front of the pivoting arm. Extension of each actuation device will lift the tailgate.