If you own property in the UK, rising house prices could mean your inheritance tax bills will be higher than you expect. As property values increase, more estates exceed the tax-free thresholds. This means you or your family may owe significant inheritance tax unless careful planning is done. The thresholds for inheritance tax have stayed […]

If you are an unmarried couple living together in the UK, it’s important to understand that you do not have the same automatic legal rights as married couples when it comes to inheritance and estate matters. Without proper estate planning, your partner could face financial difficulties or lose access to shared assets if you pass […]

Couples who want to protect their assets and reduce inheritance tax often consider mirror wills. These are paired wills made by two people, usually spouses or civil partners, that have nearly identical terms. Mirror wills help couples plan together to pass on their estate efficiently, often reducing inheritance tax by ensuring assets are passed to […]

When someone owns a second property, especially one used as a buy-to-let, it can have a big impact on their inheritance tax (IHT) liability. Buy-to-let portfolios and other second homes are often included in the value of an estate, which means they could increase the amount of tax owed when passing wealth to heirs. Understanding […]

Leaving money to charity in a will can reduce the amount of inheritance tax an estate has to pay. Any gift made to a registered charity is exempt from inheritance tax, which lowers the overall taxable value of the estate. This means philanthropy can directly cut down the tax bill while supporting causes that matter. […]

Many people believe they are far from owing inheritance tax, but the truth is that more estates reach the threshold than expected. The current limit before inheritance tax applies is £325,000 per person, with additional allowances if passing on a home. This means a significant number of people may be closer to the tax threshold […]

If a Labour government takes office, your inheritance tax rules could change significantly. They plan to close loopholes like offshore trusts and overhaul the way tax applies to pensions within the estate. This means you may face new tax rules that affect how much you pass on to your loved ones. You should also be […]

If you are part of a blended family, planning for Inheritance Tax (IHT) can be more complex than you might expect. Without careful planning, you could unintentionally leave some family members with less than you intended or face higher tax bills. The key to effective IHT planning in blended families is to update your will […]

If you want to reduce the amount of inheritance tax your family has to pay, there are legal ways to do it. You can lower your inheritance tax bill by using strategies like gifting money during your lifetime, making use of your tax-free allowances, and passing property to your children or grandchildren. These methods help […]

As you consider the future of inheritance tax in the UK, it's essential to understand the shifts that may impact how wealth is transferred. Recent forecasts suggest that inheritance tax will continue to contribute significantly to government revenue, with estimates indicating a collection of £8.3 billion in 2024-25. This figure highlights the importance of staying […]

Navigating inheritance tax can be complicated, especially when it comes to investments in cryptocurrencies. If you own crypto assets, it's essential to understand how these digital currencies are treated under UK tax law. Cryptocurrency is considered property for inheritance tax purposes, meaning it is included in your estate and subject to tax based on its […]

Navigating inheritance tax planning can be challenging, especially for blended families with different needs and expectations. You may worry about ensuring that all your loved ones, including biological children and stepchildren, receive a fair share of your estate. To achieve this, clear communication, a well-structured estate plan, and possibly the use of trusts can help […]

Inheritance tax can significantly affect family-owned art and antiques, which are often valuable assets within an estate. Understanding how inheritance tax applies to these items is crucial for effective estate planning. Without proper strategies in place, your family could face unexpected financial burdens when trying to retain treasured pieces of art or collectibles. Art and […]

Planning for inheritance tax on agricultural and rural estates is crucial for anyone involved in farming or managing land. Being aware of options like Agricultural Property Relief (APR) and Business Property Relief (BPR) can significantly reduce the tax burden and help preserve your estate for future generations. Understanding these reliefs allows you to make informed […]

When dealing with the passing of a loved one, executors play a crucial role in managing the estate’s finances, including any inheritance tax liabilities. Understanding your responsibilities as an executor is vital, especially since you must ensure that all taxes are paid on time to avoid penalties. This task can feel overwhelming, particularly when you […]

Lifetime trusts can be a powerful tool in your estate planning strategy. They allow you to transfer assets while maintaining control during your lifetime. By placing your assets in a lifetime trust, you can effectively shield them from inheritance tax, ensuring that more of your wealth is passed on to your beneficiaries. Understanding how inheritance […]

Structuring your family business effectively can safeguard your legacy while minimising inheritance tax. Implementing tax-efficient strategies such as utilising Family Investment Companies and properly planning your succession can significantly lower your tax liability. These methods not only help in passing on assets to the next generation but also ensure that your business thrives without unnecessary […]

When considering the gifting of overseas property, it is essential to understand the implications of inheritance tax (IHT). Many people are unaware that gifting property abroad can lead to significant tax liabilities after death. Understanding the rules surrounding inheritance tax on overseas gifts can help you make informed decisions and potentially save money for your […]

Regular estate valuations are essential for effective inheritance tax planning. By accurately assessing the value of your estate, you can ensure you meet tax obligations and maximise available allowances. Understanding your estate's value helps you identify tax liabilities and avoid unexpected costs during the inheritance process. Proper estate valuation allows you to create a strategic […]

Protecting your estate from inheritance tax is a crucial step in ensuring that your loved ones receive what you've worked hard to build. There are effective strategies that allow you to minimise the impact of inheritance tax while maintaining control over your assets. Estate planning can provide peace of mind, knowing that your beneficiaries will […]