People don’t understand IHT

1 in 3 people expecting £300k+ don’t fully understand IHT. Only 20% plan to pass on assets during their lifetime, often due to uncertainty—but 80% of women who get financial advice use tax-efficient strategies to protect their wealth. With IHT rules changing, now’s the time to seek professional guidance
Research has revealed that 1 in 3 people who expect to inherit at least £300,000 don’t fully understand IHT  Despite a tightening of the IHT net, only 20% of people plan to distribute most of their assets  Eighty per cent of women who have received financial advice say they plan to use tax-efficient strategies to pass on their wealth 

Gifts. Reliefs. Exemptions. Complex IHT rules are creating a knowledge gap that could prove costly. 

Research1 has revealed that one in three people who expect to inherit at least £300,000 don’t fully understand how IHT works. This could prevent families from maximising the potential of intergenerational wealth transfers to reduce tax liabilities. 

Despite a tightening of the IHT net, only 20% of people plan to distribute most of their assets during their lifetime. Although uncertainty about future living and care costs is the biggest barrier, around a quarter of people admit they don’t understand the different options available. 

Women primed to pass on their wealth 

The survey also highlights the growing influence of women in managing intergenerational wealth and the role of professional expertise. Eighty per cent of women who have received financial advice say they plan to use tax-efficient strategies to pass on their wealth.  

With some IHT changes already announced and others in the pipeline, it’s more important than ever to seek advice about how effective wealth management could benefit your loved ones. 

1M&G, 2025 

It is important to take professional advice before making any decision relating to your personal finances. Information within this article is based on our current understanding and can be subject to change without notice and the accuracy and completeness of the information cannot be guaranteed. It does not provide individual tailored advice and is for guidance only. Some rules may vary in different parts of the UK. 

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