Individuals
Inheritance Tax
Planning, reporting, and minimising IHT for your estate
Overview
Inheritance Tax can consume up to 40% of your estate if left unplanned. The good news: with proper planning, much of it is avoidable.
We help individuals understand their IHT exposure, implement strategies to reduce liability, and ensure correct reporting of estates. Whether you're planning your own estate or administering a deceased person's affairs, we provide expert guidance.
Early planning is key. Starting years ahead gives you far more options than waiting until death is imminent.
Key Areas Covered
What we cover as part of this service.
- IHT liability calculation and nil-rate bands
- Residence nil-rate band (additional allowance for main residences)
- Lifetime gifts and annual exemptions
- Tax-efficient use of trusts
- Business property relief and agricultural relief
- Pension planning to avoid IHT
- Spouse/civil partner exemptions
- Lifetime vs. death transfers
- Reporting requirements for estates
Common Issues We Solve
Problems we see regularly — and how we fix them.
Unplanned Estate
Without planning, your estate may be subject to 40% IHT on amounts over the nil-rate band. Strategic gifts and planning can reduce this dramatically.
Incorrect Estate Administration
Executors often don't know the IHT reporting requirements, leading to missed deadlines and penalties.
Unused Allowances
IHT nil-rate band is personal. If you don't use yours, it's wasted unless your spouse can claim it after your death. Proper planning maximises this.
Pricing for This Service
Clear fees. Fixed fee confirmed in writing before we begin.
Priced on consultation
Estate Planning services priced on consultation depending on complexity.
Fixed fee confirmed in writing before we begin.
Get Your Fixed QuoteFrequently Asked Questions
Yes. Gifts made more than 7 years before death are usually exempt. Regular gifts within annual exemptions also help. Proper planning now significantly reduces later liability.
The residence nil-rate band (RNRB) is an additional allowance of up to £175k (2024-25) when leaving your main residence to direct descendants. Standard nil-rate band is £325k. Both can be used.
Not always. If your estate is below the nil-rate band and no gifts within 7 years push it over, a return may not be required. We advise based on your specific situation.
Trusts can be structured to spread IHT liability across beneficiaries, avoid estate duty on certain assets, and provide ongoing control. Strategy depends on your objectives.
Why Choose UA Tax
Strategic Planners
We help you reduce IHT exposure through legal, practical strategies.
Executor Support
If you're administering an estate, we guide you through IHT reporting and calculations.
Clear Planning
Understanding your position and options, with actionable steps.
Ready to discuss your estate or family tax position?
Book a consultation and we will confirm what you need and provide a fixed fee quote.