Govt hints at future IHT reform

Commissioned research into IHT use

Hannah Godfrey
clock • 3 min read

The government has hinted at reforming the current inheritance tax (IHT) system after commissioning research into the complex area.

HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) commissioned the research on 22 November alongside the Budget to better understand the motivations, behaviours and attitudes underlying individuals' decision-making process on IHT matters, and the use of reliefs and exemptions. There was a limited understanding of IHT among the interviewees, most were aware of the basic principles of IHT such as the threshold and spouse exemption, but few actually relayed the details of these, and very few were aware of agricultural property relief (APR) and business property relief (BPR). HMRC interviewed 80 people who eit...

To continue reading this article...

Join Professional Adviser for free

  • Unlimited access to real-time news, industry insights and market intelligence
  • Stay ahead of the curve with spotlights on emerging trends and technologies
  • Receive breaking news stories straight to your inbox in the daily newsletters
  • Make smart business decisions with the latest developments in regulation, investing retirement and protection
  • Members-only access to the editor’s weekly Friday commentary
  • Be the first to hear about our events and awards programmes

Join

 

Already a Professional Adviser member?

Login

More on Tax planning

HMRC releases 'crucial' technical note on IHT on pensions

HMRC releases 'crucial' technical note on IHT on pensions

Law firm warns of complexity and risk for families and executors

Jenna Brown
clock 11 May 2026 • 3 min read
Advisers must shift IHT planning mindset from 'passive to active'

Advisers must shift IHT planning mindset from 'passive to active'

Speaking on a PA360 IHT-focused panel session

Jenna Brown
clock 11 May 2026 • 3 min read
How fixing the £100,000 childcare cliff edge could boost families and the Treasury coffers

How fixing the £100,000 childcare cliff edge could boost families and the Treasury coffers

'A flawed tax policy with real consequences for families and the wider economy'

Charlene Young
clock 07 May 2026 • 4 min read