IHT changes push wealthy families towards 'gifting with control'

Rethinking succession plans

Isabel Baxter
clock • 3 min read

Inheritance tax (IHT) changes have driven demand for ‘gifting with control’ as wealthy families rethink succession plans, Utmost has said.

HM Revenue and Customs figures suggest that the frozen IHT thresholds are already set to increase IHT receipts to a fifth consecutive annual record haul in 2025/26. It is now expected that the further tightening of the regime will accelerate this trend. The Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) again uprated its projections for IHT at the Spring Statement, now estimating that the Treasury will collect an extra £700m, taking total receipts to £70.6bn, between 2025/26 and 2030/31. Upcoming reforms bringing unused pension funds within the scope of IHT from 2027 are also set to reshap...

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

Andrew Tully: The IHT on pensions illiquid assets challenge

Andrew Tully: The IHT on pensions illiquid assets challenge

'The need for advice is clear'

Andrew Tully
clock 10 April 2026 • 4 min read
Why the Scottish Budget means it's time to act to save your pension

Why the Scottish Budget means it's time to act to save your pension

'These changes may mark something of an inflection point'

Drew Nutsford
clock 02 April 2026 • 4 min read
Expect 'painful teething challenges' on IHT overpayments, advisers warn

Expect 'painful teething challenges' on IHT overpayments, advisers warn

Fears HMRC delays could lead to months-long waits

Laura Purkess
clock 02 April 2026 • 2 min read