Top Ten Ways to Minimise Inheritance Tax

Inheritance Tax (IHT) in the UK can significantly reduce the value of an estate passed on to beneficiaries. However, there are legal ways to minimize this tax burden. Here are ten strategies:

• Annual Gifting: You can gift up to a certain amount (as of my last update, it was £3,000 per year) without it being subject to inheritance tax. Smaller gifts of up to £250 to any number of individuals are also exempt.

• Exempt Gifts: Gifts to charities, political parties, or for the maintenance of heritage assets are exempt from IHT.

• Small Gifts Exemption: You can make gifts of up to £250 to any number of people, and these will not be counted towards your inheritance tax.

• Regular Gifts: Gifts made from your after-tax income, providing they don’t affect your standard of living, are generally exempt from IHT.

• Use of Trusts: Setting up trusts can be a way to distribute assets while reducing inheritance tax liability. Seek professional advice as trusts can be complex.

• Business and Agricultural Relief: Some assets, such as a business or agricultural property, may qualify for relief, reducing the taxable value of these assets.

• Life Insurance Policies: If set up correctly, life insurance policies can pay out directly to beneficiaries, avoiding IHT.

• Pension Planning: Pensions are generally not counted as part of your estate for inheritance tax purposes, making them an efficient way to pass wealth to beneficiaries.

• Making a Will: Ensuring your will is structured effectively and takes advantage of available exemptions and reliefs can help minimise IHT.

• Seek Professional Advice: Tax planning can be complex, and rules may change. Consulting with a financial advisor, Estate planner or tax specialist can provide tailored strategies to minimize inheritance tax based on your specific circumstances.