What Is Inheritance Tax and How Can Planning Help Your Family?

Ravi Solanki • May 15, 2025

Inheritance Tax (IHT) is an often-overlooked aspect of financial planning that can significantly impact the wealth you pass on to your loved ones. In the UK, rising property values and frozen tax thresholds have led to more families facing unexpected IHT bills. For instance, HMRC collected a record £6.3 billion in IHT over the nine months to the end of December 2024, a 13% increase from the same period the previous year . This underscores the importance of proactive tax planning to safeguard your family's financial future.

Inheritance Tax in the UK

Inheritance Tax is levied on the estate of a deceased person, encompassing property, money, and possessions. Unlike income or capital gains tax, IHT is charged on the value of your estate at the time of death. Currently, the standard IHT rate is 40% on the portion of the estate exceeding the tax-free thresholds.

Historical Context and Modern Relevance

Originally introduced to tax the wealthiest estates, IHT has become increasingly relevant to middle-income families due to property price inflation and stagnant tax thresholds. This shift necessitates careful estate planning to mitigate potential tax liabilities.

Current UK Thresholds and Rates

As of the 2025/26 tax year, the nil-rate band remains at £325,000, and the residence nil-rate band is £175,000. These thresholds are frozen until at least April 2028. This means an individual can pass on up to £500,000 tax-free, or up to £1 million for married couples or civil partners, provided certain conditions are met.

Real-Life Scenarios

  • Estate Below Threshold: An individual leaves an estate worth £300,000 to their children. Since this is below the nil-rate band, no IHT is due.

  • Estate Above Threshold: A married couple leaves an estate worth £1.2 million, including their main residence passed to their children. Utilising both nil-rate bands and residence nil-rate bands, £1 million is tax-free, but the remaining £200,000 is subject to 40% IHT, resulting in an £80,000 tax bill.

HMRC's Role and Payment Timelines

HMRC oversees the collection of IHT. The tax must be paid within six months of the end of the month in which the person died. Failure to pay on time may result in interest charges and potential penalties.

Common Misconceptions and Overlooked Pitfalls in UK IHT

"Only the Wealthy Need to Worry About IHT"

A common myth is that IHT only affects the wealthy. However, with property prices soaring, especially in areas like London and the South East, many middle-income families find their estates exceeding the tax-free thresholds.

The Truth About Lifetime Gifts and the 7-Year Rule

Gifting assets during your lifetime can reduce your estate's value, but it's subject to the 7-year rule. If you die within seven years of making a gift, it may still be subject to IHT, with taper relief applying to gifts made between three and seven years before death.

Relying Solely on Family Homes to Avoid IHT

While passing your main residence to direct descendants can qualify for the residence nil-rate band, this strategy alone may not suffice. Other assets and the total value of the estate must be considered to effectively minimise IHT.

The Risk of Outdated Wills and Uncoordinated Estate Planning

An outdated will may not reflect current laws or your financial situation, leading to unintended tax consequences. Regularly reviewing and updating your will is a crucial aspect of comprehensive estate planning.

Lesser-Known Assets That Can Trigger IHT

Assets such as overseas property, business shares, and certain investments may be subject to IHT. It's essential to account for all assets in your estate to avoid unexpected tax liabilities.

How Sure Wealth Can Assist You

Navigating the complexities of inheritance tax planning requires expert guidance.Sure Wealth offers tailored financial advice to help you develop effective strategies for inheritance planning. Our services include:

  • Comprehensive Estate Planning: Ensuring your assets are distributed according to your wishes while minimising tax liabilities.

  • Tax Planning Strategies: Identifying opportunities to reduce IHT through legitimate means, such as utilising available reliefs and exemptions.

  • Regular Reviews: Keeping your estate plan up-to-date with changes in legislation and personal circumstances.

To learn more about how we can assist you,contact us or book a consulation today.

Emotional and Financial Value of Planning Ahead

Inheritance tax planning isn’t just a financial exercise—it’s an act of care. Thoughtful planning communicates your intentions clearly, prevents future disputes, and ensures that your loved ones are supported even after you're gone.

Inheritance Tax Planning as an Act of Care

Planning ahead shows consideration for your family’s future. It alleviates the administrative stress and financial uncertainty that often arise when no clear estate plan is in place. Instead of scrambling to make decisions during a time of grief, your loved ones will have the peace of mind knowing your wishes were carefully considered and legally recorded.

Preventing Family Disputes

A well-crafted will and estate plan help avoid inheritance disputes. When your intentions are laid out clearly, there’s less room for confusion or conflict. This clarity is especially important in blended families, business-owning families, or those with multiple properties and assets.

Preserving Generational Wealth

Inheritance planning is closely tied to the idea of generational wealth. When done correctly, it ensures that your estate can support not just your immediate family, but future generations as well. Without a solid plan, your estate could be significantly reduced by tax liability, leaving far less for your descendants.

The Emotional Toll of Sudden Tax Bills

One of the most challenging aspects of poor IHT planning is the emotional burden it places on grieving families. A sudden inheritance tax liability, especially one that was unexpected, can cause financial hardship and delay the distribution of assets.

Case Study: Two Families, Two Outcomes

Consider two families: The Smiths and the Taylors. Mr. Smith had detailed estate planning, including a will, trusts, and life insurance to cover any IHT liability. When he passed away, his estate was quickly and smoothly distributed. The Taylors, on the other hand, had no plan in place. Mrs. Taylor's heirs faced a large inheritance tax bill and had to sell a cherished family property to cover it. The contrast in these outcomes highlights the vital importance of planning ahead.

For more detailed guidance on estate planning, you can visit theUK Government’s official guide to Inheritance Tax.

Proactive Strategies That Can Legally Minimise Inheritance Tax

UK law provides several legitimate methods to minimise or even avoid inheritance tax. Below are key strategies to consider as part of your IHT planning.

The Power of Regular Gifting

Under current UK law, you can give away £3,000 each year without it counting toward your estate for IHT purposes. This is known as your annual exemption. Additionally, gifts made more than seven years before your death are usually exempt, under the "seven-year rule."

  • Track Gifts Carefully: Keep detailed records of what was given, when, and to whom.

  • Gifting from Surplus Income: If you can prove that gifts were made from excess income, they may be entirely exempt from IHT, regardless of the seven-year rule.

Life Insurance Policies in Trust

Life insurance can be used to cover the cost of IHT. When policies are written in trust, the payout does not form part of your estate and is therefore not subject to IHT.

  • Immediate Access: The funds can be accessed quickly by your executors to settle IHT bills without needing to sell estate assets.

  • Avoid Probate Delays: Because the payout is outside your estate, it avoids probate, reducing stress and waiting time.

Using Pensions Strategically

Pensions typically fall outside your estate and can be passed on tax-free if you die before the age of 75. Even after 75, they may still be passed on at a lower tax rate than IHT.

  • Draw Other Income First: Consider drawing from ISAs or other investments before touching your pension.

  • Nominate Beneficiaries: Make sure your pension provider has up-to-date nominations to ensure smooth transfer.

Setting Up Trusts for Children and Vulnerable Beneficiaries

Trusts can protect assets from IHT while also offering controlled distributions to beneficiaries.

  • Discretionary Trusts: Allow trustees to decide how and when to distribute assets.

  • Vulnerable Beneficiary Trusts: Offer special tax advantages when the beneficiary is disabled or otherwise vulnerable.

Leveraging Business Relief and Agricultural Property Relief

If you own a business or farmland, you may qualify for valuable reliefs that reduce or eliminate the value of those assets for IHT purposes.

  • Business Property Relief (BPR): Up to 100% relief for qualifying business assets, such as shares in a trading company.

  • Agricultural Property Relief (APR): Available for farmland and agricultural buildings, potentially removing their value from IHT calculations.

When to Seek Professional Advice

Inheritance tax planning can be complex, and the stakes are high. Consulting a tax adviser or solicitor ensures you are making the most of exemptions and reliefs.

  • Tailored Advice: Every family situation is unique. Professionals can help you navigate IHT planning strategies that suit your specific circumstances.

  • Stay Up-to-Date: Tax laws change. Regular check-ins with an adviser ensure your estate plan remains compliant and effective.

Conclusion

Securing your family’s financial future doesn’t have to be overwhelming. At Sure Wealth (Strathmore UK Investments Limited T/A Sure Wealth), we specialise in estate planning, inheritance tax planning, business owner succession planning, and probate services. Whether you’re a family looking to protect your legacy or a business owner planning for the future, our expert team offers clear guidance and support every step of the way.

We understand that legal and financial planning can be stressful, which is why our approach is built on simplicity, clarity, and confidentiality. Our tailored solutions are designed to ease the burden, giving you peace of mind that your affairs are in order and your loved ones are protected.

With private, no-obligation consultations, we’re here to help you make informed decisions that safeguard your wealth for generations to come. Let us take the complexity out of estate planning so you can focus on what truly matters.

Get in touch today by calling 0203 5511090 or emailing enquiries@surewealth.co.uk to book your confidential consultation with Sure Wealth — your trusted partner in planning for tomorrow.

What Happens to Your Business if It's Not Included in a Will or Business Owner Planning?

By Ravi Solanki • May 15, 2025
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What Is Estate Planning?

By Ravi Solanki • May 15, 2025
Estate planning is the process of arranging for the management and distribution of your assets after death or incapacitation. In the UK, it's a crucial step for individuals of all wealth levels—not just the affluent. By proactively planning, you ensure that your wishes are honoured, your loved ones are protected, and your estate is handled efficiently. While it might seem like a complex or exclusive process, estate planning is important for everyone, regardless of their financial status. Whether you have a modest home, savings, or investments, creating an estate plan can make a significant difference in how your assets are transferred and how your loved ones are cared for after you're gone. By taking a few thoughtful steps now, you ensure that the process is as smooth as possible for those left behind. Contact Sure Wealth for more information. Estate Planning Estate planning involves preparing for the management and distribution of your assets after your death or if you become incapacitated. This process is essential for everyone, regardless of the size of their estate, as it provides clarity and reduces potential conflicts among heirs. It ensures that your wishes are followed and provides a framework to help your loved ones navigate an often complicated and emotional time. What Constitutes an Estate? Your estate encompasses all the assets you own, which may include: Property : Your home, other real estate holdings, and any land. Savings and Investments : Bank accounts, stocks, bonds, pension plans, and other forms of financial investment. Personal Belongings : Items like jewellery, artwork, heirlooms, and valuable items that hold sentimental or financial value. Insurance Policies : Including life insurance policies and any other forms of coverage that may contribute to your estate. By including all assets in your estate planning, you ensure that everything is covered and no surprises arise when your assets are distributed. Primary Goals of Estate Planning The main objectives of estate planning are to: Protect Assets : Safeguard your wealth from unnecessary taxes, creditors, or potential legal disputes. Provide for Loved Ones : Ensure that your family, children, or other dependents are financially supported. Ensure Smooth Asset Transfer : Make sure your assets are distributed according to your wishes, without unnecessary delays or complications. The goal is to give you peace of mind, knowing that your affairs are in order and your loved ones are provided for. Key Components of Estate Planning Effective estate planning typically includes: Wills : A legal document that outlines how your assets should be distributed after your death. Trusts : A legal arrangement where a trustee holds assets on behalf of beneficiaries. Trusts can help with managing assets during your lifetime and ensure that assets are distributed to your loved ones as intended. Powers of Attorney : Legal documents that appoint someone to make decisions on your behalf if you become mentally incapacitated. Health Care Directives : Instructions regarding your medical care preferences should you be unable to communicate your wishes. All of these elements work together to form a complete estate plan that addresses various aspects of asset management, healthcare decisions, and distribution. The Estate Planning Process Embarking on the estate planning process involves several important steps that can make a significant difference in ensuring your plan is both comprehensive and effective. Here's an outline of the typical process: Assess Your Financial Situation : Take stock of all your assets, including property, savings, investments, and personal belongings. Consider all your liabilities, such as mortgages or debts, to understand your overall financial picture. Define Your Goals : Consider what you want to achieve with your estate plan. Who do you want to inherit your assets? Do you want to provide for specific family members or charitable organisations? Define your objectives early on so that your plan aligns with your intentions. Consult Professionals : While it’s possible to create a basic estate plan yourself, consulting with a solicitor, financial advisor, or estate planner is highly recommended. These professionals can help ensure your plan is legally sound, considers all tax implications, and accounts for future life events like changes in family structure or tax laws. Draft Essential Documents : Create a will, establish trusts, and set up powers of attorney. It’s vital that these documents are carefully crafted and legally binding to avoid any disputes or confusion in the future. Communicate Your Plan : Make sure your family and executors are aware of your estate plan. This helps avoid surprises and ensures that everyone is clear on your wishes, which can prevent disputes. Review Regularly : Estate planning is not a one-time event. It’s important to review and update your plan regularly to reflect changes in your life, such as marriage, the birth of children, or changes in your financial situation. Key Components Explained Wills A will is one of the most fundamental elements of estate planning. This legal document specifies how your assets will be distributed after your death. Without a valid will, your estate may be distributed according to intestacy laws, which may not align with your wishes. Trusts A trust allows you to control how your assets are managed and distributed after your death. You can create a trust to reduce inheritance tax liabilities, protect assets for beneficiaries who are not yet capable of managing them (such as children), or ensure that your estate is distributed in phases according to your wishes. Powers of Attorney A lasting power of attorney (LPA) is a legal document that gives someone you trust the authority to make decisions on your behalf if you are unable to do so yourself. This can include decisions regarding your property and financial affairs, as well as your health and personal welfare. Health Care Directives Health care directives allow you to specify your wishes regarding medical treatment should you become unable to communicate your preferences. This includes decisions such as whether you want life-support measures or how you would like end-of-life care to be managed. How Sure Wealth Can Assist You At Sure Wealth, we specialise in guiding individuals through the estate planning process. Whether you're looking to create a will, establish a trust, or set up powers of attorney, we can provide expert advice to ensure that your estate plan is comprehensive and legally sound. Our services include: Personalised Estate Planning Advice : Tailored strategies that are designed to meet your specific needs and goals. Will and Trust Creation : Assistance in drafting wills and setting up trusts to protect your assets and minimise inheritance tax. Power of Attorney Setup : Helping you set up the right powers of attorney to ensure that your affairs are handled properly. Inheritance Tax Planning : Strategies to help reduce the inheritance tax burden on your estate. To learn more about how we can help you secure your legacy, contact us or book a demo today. Common Estate Planning Mistakes and How to Avoid Them Estate planning is an essential step in safeguarding your assets, ensuring your loved ones are cared for, and ensuring that your wishes are carried out after you pass away. However, it’s easy to make mistakes during the estate planning process, which can have serious consequences. In this blog post, we’ll explore some common estate planning mistakes, how to avoid them, and strategies for creating a plan that works for you. 1. Neglecting to Create or Update a Will One of the most common mistakes people make is failing to create a will or neglecting to update it when life circumstances change. A will is a legal document that outlines how your estate should be distributed after you pass away. If you die without a will, known as intestacy, the law will determine how your estate is divided—often in ways that don’t align with your intentions. To avoid this mistake, take the time to create a will that clearly outlines your wishes regarding asset distribution, guardianship for any minor children, and the appointment of an executor. Regularly review and update your will to reflect any changes in your life, such as marriage, divorce, births, or the acquisition of new assets. If you’re unsure about how to proceed, consulting an estate planning solicitor can provide valuable guidance. 2. Failing to Consider the Implications of Cohabitation Without Legal Recognition Cohabiting couples who are not legally married may overlook the importance of estate planning. In the UK, cohabiting couples do not have the same inheritance rights as married couples. If one partner dies without a will, the surviving partner may not inherit anything, even if they have lived together for years. To avoid this mistake, ensure that you and your partner have clear estate plans in place. This might include drafting wills that specify your wishes for asset distribution and considering the use of trusts to provide protection for the surviving partner. If you’re cohabiting without legal recognition, it’s essential to seek professional financial advice to understand your options. 3. Overlooking the Need for Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPAs) A common oversight in estate planning is neglecting to set up a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA). An LPA allows you to appoint someone to make decisions on your behalf if you lose mental capacity. Without an LPA, your family may need to apply to the court for a deputyship order, a costly and time-consuming process that can leave you vulnerable in a time of need. To avoid this mistake, ensure that you have both a Property and Financial Affairs LPA and a Health and Welfare LPA in place. These documents will allow someone you trust to manage your finances and make healthcare decisions if you become incapacitated. LPAs are a crucial part of the estate planning process and can provide peace of mind. 4. Not Accounting for Digital Assets and Online Accounts In today’s digital age, many people overlook the importance of planning for digital assets and online accounts. From social media profiles to digital banking accounts and cryptocurrency, these assets need to be considered in your estate plan. Failing to account for these can cause unnecessary complications for your loved ones. To avoid this, take inventory of all your digital assets, including online accounts, passwords, and any other relevant digital property. Designate someone in your will or LPA to manage these assets and ensure your online presence is properly handled after your death. 5. Ignoring the Impact of Estate Taxes Estate taxes can significantly reduce the value of the inheritance you leave behind for your loved ones. Many individuals make the mistake of not considering estate taxes when planning their estates. In the UK, estate taxes are charged on estates that exceed the inheritance tax threshold. To avoid estate taxes from eroding your estate, work with a financial advisor or estate planning solicitor to explore strategies such as gifting assets during your lifetime, setting up trusts, and using exemptions to reduce your estate’s taxable value. Planning ahead for estate taxes can help preserve your legacy for future generations. Steps to Begin Your Estate Planning Journey Estate planning may seem overwhelming, but taking it step by step ensures that you protect your assets and provide for your loved ones. Here are some practical steps to help you get started on your estate planning journey. 1. Inventory Assets Before you can begin drafting your estate plan, you need to know what you own. Start by making a comprehensive list of all your assets, including property, savings, investments, life insurance policies, and any other valuables. Don’t forget to include liabilities, such as loans or credit card debts, as they will affect the value of your estate. 2. Define Objectives What do you want to achieve with your estate plan? Do you want to provide for your children’s education, ensure your spouse is financially secure, or leave a charitable gift? Take time to clarify your goals and objectives for your estate plan. This will help you determine how best to allocate your assets and choose the right tools, such as trusts or life insurance policies, to meet your needs. 3. Consult Professionals Estate planning is a complex process that requires expertise in legal and financial matters. Consulting with professionals, such as estate planning solicitors or financial advisors, is essential to ensure that your plan is legally sound and aligned with your financial goals. Professionals can also help you navigate important considerations, such as estate taxes and long-term care planning. 4. Draft Essential Documents Once you have a clear understanding of your assets and objectives, it’s time to draft the essential documents for your estate plan. These documents may include: A will, which outlines your wishes for asset distribution and appoints an executor. A trust, which allows you to control how your assets are distributed and may help reduce inheritance tax. Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPAs), which designate someone to make decisions on your behalf if you become incapacitated. Ensure that these documents are drafted correctly and in accordance with UK law to ensure they are valid and enforceable. 5. Communicate Plans It’s important to communicate your estate plans with your family members and loved ones. Having an open and honest conversation can prevent misunderstandings and disputes later on. Make sure that your family knows where to find your estate planning documents and understands your wishes. 6. Regular Reviews Life changes, and so should your estate plan. Major life events such as marriage, divorce, the birth of children, or changes in financial circumstances may require updates to your estate plan. Regularly review and update your plan to ensure it reflects your current situation. Conclusion In conclusion, estate planning is an essential step in securing the future of your family and business. At Sure Wealth (Strathmore UK Investments Limited T/A Sure Wealth), we simplify this often overwhelming process by offering expert services in estate planning, inheritance tax planning, business owner succession planning, and probate. Whether you're a family looking to safeguard your wealth or a business owner planning for the future, our tailored, professional approach removes the stress of legal and financial decisions. We ensure your estate is well-organised and your loved ones are protected, with the added benefit of private, confidential consultations. With Sure Wealth , you can trust that your estate planning process is in capable hands. Begin your journey to a secure financial future by reaching out to us today. For more information or to schedule a consultation, call 0203 5511090 or email enquiries@surewealth.co.uk . Don't delay—plan today for peace of mind tomorrow.

80% of over-55s don’t have a Lasting Power of Attorney in place. Overlooking this could place you in a vulnerable position

By Ravi • July 1, 2024
Do you have a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) in place? If you don’t, it could leave you in a vulnerable position if you’re unable to make decisions for yourself, such as after an accident or illness. Losing the mental capacity or ability to make decisions for yourself is something no one likes to think […] The post 80% of over-55s don’t have a Lasting Power of Attorney in place. Overlooking this could place you in a vulnerable position appeared first on Strathmore Wills & Estate Planning.

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By Ravi • June 17, 2022
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By Ravi • April 21, 2022
Receiving an inheritance can be life-changing. It could provide you with the financial security to pursue your dreams or make significant changes to your lifestyle. However, it can be overwhelming, and you may worry about making the “wrong” decision that could impact the rest of your life. According to a report in Your Mortgage, 11.6 […] The post 7 steps to take when you receive an inheritance to make the most of it appeared first on Strathmore Wills & Estate Planning.
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