The latest figures from HMRC show that Inheritance Tax receipts have risen by 7.2% since last year. By taking advantage of available tax reliefs and planning carefully, families can make sure their loved ones pay the smallest tax bill possible and get the most out of what they inherit.
Inheritance Tax – The importance of planning ahead!
With more estates than ever liable for Inheritance Tax, it’s crucial to plan ahead to avoid a large tax bill for your loved ones. If the value of your estate is below the current nil rate band allowance of £325,000, no Inheritance Tax is owed, provided the allowance hasn’t been reduced by relevant lifetime gifts.
For married couples or civil partners who leave their entire estate to each other, HMRC permits the full transfer of the nil rate band to the surviving partner, effectively doubling the allowance to £650,000. Even if only a part of the estate goes to the spouse, the unused portion of the nil rate band can still be transferred upon the death of the second spouse.
If your estate includes a business or related assets, at present, additional reliefs currently apply at rates of either 50% or 100%. Likewise, certain agricultural properties, such as land used for rearing animals or growing crops, can pass free of Inheritance Tax, provided specific criteria are met.
Creating a Will is essential to ensure your assets are distributed to your chosen beneficiaries. Without a valid will, your estate will be divided according to the intestacy rules, which may result in your family not receiving what you intended. Research from The Association of Lifetime Lawyers shows nearly half of UK adults (49%) do not have a will. It’s important to consult a legal professional to help you draft a Will.
Given the recent change in Government, we’d recommend keeping an eye out for any potential policy changes and speak with a Lifetime Lawyer to help minimise your tax bill.
How we can help
Amanda Voakes is a Partner in our expert Wills and Probate team, advising on Inheritance Tax planning, Wills, administration of estates, grants of Probate, grants of Letters of Administration, Powers of Attorney, administration of affairs, and residential care fee planning/protection of assets.
Amanda is an accredited member of The Association of Lifetime Lawyers (formerly known as Solicitors for the Elderly or SFE) which is a membership body for legal professionals. Members of the group are the most qualified lawyers in the country when it comes to supporting older people and those in vulnerable circumstances who may need extra help and support. Lifetime Lawyers receive expert training and best practice guidance to offer the very best advice.
If you require any legal advice concerning Inheritance Tax planning or related subjects, please contact Amanda or another member of the team in Derby, Leicester or Nottingham on 0800 024 1976 or via our online enquiry form.
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