United Kingdom: Inheritance Tax

Recent changes to inheritance tax rules have narrowed the charity exemption, potentially affecting charitable gifts in Wills made for "general charitable purposes." Donor-advised funds offer a flexible, tax-efficient alternative that allows individuals to maintain philanthropic intent while adapting to evolving circumstances and involving future generations in charitable giving.

Irwin Mitchell provides comprehensive legal news, expert commentary, and industry insights across key sectors. The firm's latest Leading Litigator Report reveals that 69% of General Counsels now view litigation as either an operational necessity or strategic investment, examining how in-house legal teams are navigating alternative funding, AI adoption, and geopolitical influences while managing risk and controlling costs.

With significant inheritance tax changes for pensions taking effect in April 2027, this comprehensive guide examines five essential areas of estate planning that families should review this autumn. From pension arrangements and regular gifting strategies to education funding, lasting powers of attorney, and digital asset management, discover practical steps to ensure your financial affairs remain aligned with your objectives and compliant with evolving tax legislation.

Irwin Mitchell provides comprehensive legal news, expert commentary, and industry insights across key sectors. The firm's latest Leading Litigator Report reveals that nearly 70% of General Counsels now view litigation as either an operational necessity or strategic investment for protecting intellectual property and market position. Discover how in-house legal teams are navigating litigation priorities, alternative funding, AI adoption, and geopolitical influences in the year ahead.

Scottish business owners face unique estate planning challenges that require careful consideration and strategic preparation. Understanding the intricacies of succession planning, tax implications, and asset protection is essential for preserving wealth and ensuring smooth business transitions across generations.

Irwin Mitchell provides comprehensive legal news, expert commentary, and industry insights across key sectors. The firm's latest Leading Litigator Report reveals that 69% of General Counsels now view litigation as either an operational necessity or strategic investment for protecting intellectual property and market position. Stay informed through their newsletters, podcasts, and regular seminars covering legal developments that impact businesses and individuals.

A family has won a long-running dispute with HMRC after the Court of Appeal ruled decisively in their favour over an inheritance tax planning arrangement put in place by their late mother, in a case fought all the way from the First Tier Tribunal by the Will, Trusts & Estate Disputes team, here at Buckles Law.

For many families, inheritance tax planning is not about minimising a number on a balance sheet. It is about preserving something far more personal. A home that has been lived in for generations. Land that carries history as much as value. A business that represents decades of work.

Family limited partnerships offer US-UK families a flexible alternative to trusts for wealth transfer, particularly following the UK's April 2025 inheritance tax changes. This structure provides tax-efficient gifting opportunities while introducing younger generations to wealth stewardship, though careful planning is required to navigate cross-border tax implications and US estate tax restrictions.