Inheritance tax (IHT) has steadily moved from being a concern for the few to a reality for many. Recent HMRC figures show receipts reaching £7.7bn between April 2025 and February 2026, with projections suggesting this could rise to £14.5bn by the 2030/31 tax year. In practical terms, this means more families will find themselves facing significant tax liabilities on their estates—often unexpectedly.
This shift is not happening in isolation. A combination of rising property values, frozen tax thresholds, and accumulated wealth over time has created what is often referred to as “fiscal drag.” As asset values increase but allowances remain unchanged, more estates are drawn into the IHT net. For many individuals and families, particularly those who may not consider themselves “wealthy,” this can come as a surprise.
At Blacktower, we are seeing a clear and growing trend: clients are becoming increasingly aware of the potential impact of IHT and are seeking advice earlier. This is a positive development. Effective estate planning is not about reacting at the last moment—it is about taking a structured, long-term approach so your wealth is transferred according to your wishes.
One of the key challenges with IHT is that it requires careful coordination across multiple areas of financial planning. It is not simply about writing a will, although that remains a fundamental starting point. It also involves understanding how your assets are structured, how they are owned, and how they may be taxed across different jurisdictions—particularly for expatriates or those with international ties.
For UK nationals living abroad, or those with assets in multiple countries, the complexity can increase significantly. Different jurisdictions may apply their own inheritance or succession taxes, and the interaction between these systems is not always straightforward. Without proper planning, there may be risk of unintended tax exposure or complications for beneficiaries.
There are a number of well-established strategies that are commonly used to mitigate IHT liabilities such as trusts, lifetime gifting, and tax-efficient investment structures. Each approach comes with its own considerations, and what is appropriate will depend on individual circumstances, objectives, and time horizons.
Timing is also critical. Many IHT planning strategies rely on making decisions well in advance. For example, certain gifts may fall outside of your estate only after a specified period, and trusts require careful setup and ongoing management. Delaying planning may reduce the range of options available and the potential effectiveness of any measures. Seeking professional guidance early can help clarify these matters.
Another important consideration is ensuring that planning remains aligned with your broader financial goals. Estate planning should not be viewed in isolation. It needs to sit alongside retirement planning, investment strategy, and income requirements to ensure that you maintain financial security during your lifetime while also preparing for the efficient transfer of wealth.
Clear communication is equally essential. Families can benefit from having open discussions about intentions, expectations, and the practical aspects of wealth transfer. While these conversations are not always easy, they can help avoid misunderstandings and ensure that beneficiaries are better prepared for the future.
Ultimately, the rise in IHT receipts reflects broader economic and demographic trends. However, it also serves as a timely reminder of the importance of proactive planning. With appropriate advice and a structured approach, it is possible to manage potential liabilities and retain greater control over how your wealth is distributed.
Professional advice can help individuals navigate these complexities with greater clarity. If you are unsure how IHT may affect your estate, or whether your current arrangements remain appropriate, it may be helpful to seek guidance from a regulated adviser, such as Blacktower.
If you are unsure how IHT may affect your estate, or whether your current arrangements remain appropriate, now is the time to review your position and ensure your plans remain fit for purpose.
This communication is for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute, and should not be construed as, investment advice, investment recommendations or investment research. You should seek advice from a professional adviser before embarking on any financial planning activity. Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the information contained in this communication is correct, we are not responsible for any errors or omissions.
As it stands, its been nearly a year that expat retirement transfers of pensions have incurred a charge when moving to or between Qualifying Recognised Offshore Pension Schemes (QROPS), with only expats living within the European Union or a select group of 13 other countries immune to this charge.