Quick answer
In most cases, you typically won’t pay inheritance tax on assets left to you by your spouse in England and Wales, thanks to the spousal exemption. This exemption generally allows you to inherit unlimited amounts from your deceased spouse without triggering an inheritance tax bill. However, there are important conditions: your spouse must have been domiciled in the UK at death, and the exemption may be affected if you remarry or if your spouse’s estate is subject to other liabilities. Additionally, from 6 April 2027, changes to the nil-rate band could impact your overall inheritance tax position in future years. You may also inherit your spouse’s unused nil-rate band allowance (currently £325,000 (gov.uk — Inheritance Tax)), which can provide further tax relief on your own estate. This guide explains the spousal exemption in 2026/27, how to claim your spouse’s unused allowance, and what happens to your combined tax position when you later pass assets to your beneficiaries.
Last reviewed: 24 May 2026 by the MP Estate Planning editorial team. Jurisdiction: England and Wales. Scotland and Northern Ireland have different probate and intestacy rules; the IHT thresholds are UK-wide.
Inheriting assets from a deceased spouse can be a complex and emotional experience. In the UK, the rules surrounding inheritance tax can be particularly confusing, especially when it comes to inheritances from a spouse.
Many people assume that if their spouse leaves them everything, they won’t have to pay inheritance tax. However, this isn’t always the case. The UK has its own set of rules and exemptions regarding inheritance tax, and understanding these is crucial for managing your financial obligations.
We will explore the implications of inheriting from a spouse and the tax rules that apply, providing clarity on how to navigate this challenging situation.
Key Takeaways
- Understanding the UK’s inheritance tax rules and exemptions.
- The impact of inheriting assets from a spouse on inheritance tax.
- Key considerations for managing your financial obligations after inheriting from a spouse.
- How to navigate the complexities of inheritance tax in the UK.
- Important factors to consider when inheriting assets from a spouse.
Understanding Inheritance Tax in the UK
Three rule changes you may need to consider (2026/27)
1. Pensions become subject to IHT from 6 April 2027. Most unused defined-contribution pension pots currently sit outside the estate for IHT — that ends on 6 April 2027 (gov.uk policy paper). HMRC estimates around 10,500 estates will face IHT for the first time as a result.
2. Business and agricultural property reliefs capped at £2.5m per person from 6 April 2026. Above the cap, only 50% relief applies — effective IHT of 20%. AIM shares dropped to 50% relief and do not use the £2.5m allowance (Saffery — APR/BPR reforms).
3. The NRB, RNRB and £2m taper threshold are frozen until 5 April 2031 following the 2024 and 2025 Budgets (gov.uk — NRB and RNRB freeze). With inflation, more estates will be pulled into IHT each year — a process commonly called “fiscal drag.”
In the UK, inheritance tax is levied on the estate of a deceased person, but there are specific exemptions and allowances that can significantly reduce the tax burden. Understanding these aspects is crucial for effective estate planning.
What is Inheritance Tax?
Inheritance tax is a tax on the estate of someone who has passed away, including all their assets, such as property, money, and possessions. It’s essential to note that not everyone is liable to pay inheritance tax; there are specific thresholds and exemptions that can reduce the tax liability.
Key aspects of inheritance tax include:
- The tax is charged on the value of the estate above the nil-rate band.
- Certain gifts and allowances can reduce the taxable estate.
- Exemptions, such as the spousal exemption, can significantly impact the tax liability.
Current Inheritance Tax Rates
The current inheritance tax rate in the UK is 40% on the value of the estate above the nil-rate band, which stands at £325,000 for the 2023-2024 tax year. This means that if your estate is valued below this threshold, you won’t pay inheritance tax.
It’s worth noting that:
- The nil-rate band can be increased to £500,000 if you leave your main residence to direct descendants.
- Unused nil-rate band can be transferred to a surviving spouse or civil partner.
Exemptions and Allowances
Several exemptions and allowances can reduce the inheritance tax liability. These include:
- Spousal Exemption: Transfers between spouses are generally exempt from inheritance tax.
- Residence Nil-Rate Band: An additional allowance when leaving a main residence to direct descendants.
- Gifts: Certain gifts given during your lifetime can be exempt from inheritance tax if they meet specific conditions.
Understanding these exemptions and allowances is crucial for reducing your inheritance tax exposure on your estate. It’s also important to review your estate plan regularly to ensure it remains aligned with your wishes and the current tax regulations.
Spousal Exemption Explained
Spousal exemption is a crucial aspect of inheritance tax in the UK, allowing for outside the scope of IHT transfers between spouses. This exemption means that when one spouse dies, they can leave their entire estate to the surviving spouse without incurring inheritance tax charges.
What Does Spousal Exemption Cover?
Spousal exemption covers a wide range of assets, including property, cash, investments, and other possessions. This means that the surviving spouse can inherit the family home, savings, and other assets without having to pay inheritance tax on these transfers. However, it’s essential to understand that this exemption is generally only applicable when the transfer is made directly between spouses.
For instance, if a spouse leaves their estate to the surviving partner, no inheritance tax is payable. As stated by HMRC, “transfers between spouses are generally exempt from inheritance tax, provided the transfer is made outright and not conditionally.”
“Transfers between spouses are generally exempt from inheritance tax, provided the transfer is made outright and not conditionally.”
Limitations of Spousal Exemption
While spousal exemption provides significant relief, there are limitations to be aware of. One key limitation is that the exemption does not necessarily mean the surviving spouse won’t pay inheritance tax in the future. When the surviving spouse passes away, their estate (which now includes the assets inherited from their spouse) may be subject to inheritance tax if it exceeds the nil-rate band.
To illustrate, consider the following table that outlines the potential impact of spousal exemption on inheritance tax:
| Scenario | Inheritance Tax Implication |
|---|---|
| Spouse inherits assets within the nil-rate band | No inheritance tax payable |
| Spouse inherits assets exceeding the nil-rate band | Potential inheritance tax liability upon the surviving spouse’s death |
It’s also worth noting that while spousal exemption is a valuable relief, careful planning is still necessary to mitigate potential inheritance tax liabilities in the future. For more information on making outside the scope of IHT gifts, you can visit our page on inheritance outside the scope of IHT gifts.
The Role of the Nil Rate Band
When it comes to inheritance tax, the nil rate band is a key concept to grasp. The nil rate band, also known as the inheritance tax threshold, is the amount of an estate that is exempt from inheritance tax. Currently, this allowance is set at £325,000.
How the Nil Rate Band Works
The nil rate band works by allowing a certain amount of your estate to be passed on without incurring inheritance tax. Any amount above this threshold is typically taxed at 40%. For instance, if your estate is valued at £425,000, the first £325,000 is outside the scope of IHT, and the remaining £100,000 is subject to inheritance tax.
It’s worth noting that any unused portion of the nil rate band can be transferred to a surviving spouse or civil partner. This means that if one spouse doesn’t use their full nil rate band, the remaining amount can be claimed by the surviving spouse, effectively increasing their nil rate band.
When Does It Apply?
The nil rate band applies to most estates, but its application can be affected by various factors, including gifts made during your lifetime and certain types of assets. For example, if you’ve made significant gifts in the seven years preceding your death, these could impact the available nil rate band.
To maximize the benefits of the nil rate band, it’s essential to understand how it interacts with other aspects of your estate. We recommend consulting with professionals who can provide personalized guidance on managing your estate’s tax liability. For more information on managing inheritance tax, you can visit our page on managing inheritance tax.
“The nil rate band is a crucial element in inheritance tax planning, allowing individuals to pass on a significant portion of their estate outside the scope of IHT.”
By understanding and utilizing the nil rate band effectively, you can significantly reduce the inheritance tax burden on your loved ones. It’s a vital component of estate planning that can make a substantial difference in the amount they inherit.
Situations That Can Affect Tax Liability
Understanding the impact of joint assets and life insurance on inheritance tax is crucial for effective estate planning. When a spouse leaves everything to the other, it’s essential to consider how different factors can influence the tax liability of the estate.
Joint Assets and Ownership
Joint assets, such as jointly owned property, bank accounts, and investments, can significantly impact inheritance tax. In the UK, when one joint owner dies, the asset typically passes to the surviving owner outside of the estate, potentially reducing the estate’s tax liability. However, the way these assets are structured can affect whether they are included in the estate for tax purposes.
For instance, if you own a property as ‘joint tenants,’ it automatically passes to the surviving owner upon death. On the other hand, if assets are held as ‘tenants in common,’ the deceased’s share forms part of their estate and may be subject to inheritance tax. We recommend reviewing how your joint assets are structured to understand their implications for your estate’s tax liability. You can find more information on navigating married couple inheritance tax rules in the UK on our website: Navigating Married Couple Inheritance Tax Rules.
Life Insurance Policies
Life insurance policies can also play a crucial role in inheritance tax planning. If a policy is written in trust, the payout typically falls outside of the estate, helping to reduce inheritance tax exposure. This can be a valuable strategy for reducing potential tax liabilities.
It’s essential to review your life insurance policies to ensure they are structured in a tax-efficient manner. Policies that are not written in trust may form part of your estate and could increase your estate’s tax liability. By understanding how life insurance policies are treated for inheritance tax purposes, you can make informed decisions to protect your estate.
Dealing with Debts and Expenses
Debts and expenses can substantially reduce the value of an estate, and it’s essential to know how these are treated for inheritance tax purposes. When a person passes away, their estate is responsible for settling any outstanding debts and expenses before distributing the remaining assets to beneficiaries.
Understanding how debts and expenses impact inheritance tax is crucial for effective estate management. We will explore the rules surrounding debts and funeral costs, and how these affect the overall tax liability.
Impact of Debts on Inheritance Tax
Debts can be deducted from the estate’s value before calculating inheritance tax, but there are specific rules about which debts are eligible. Generally, debts that are secured against assets, such as mortgages, can be deducted. Unsecured debts, like credit card balances, are also eligible, provided they are paid before the estate is distributed.
Eligible debts for deduction include:
- Mortgages and other loans secured against property
- Credit card debts
- Utility bills and other outstanding expenses
It’s essential to keep accurate records of these debts to ensure they are correctly deducted from the estate’s value.
| Type of Debt | Eligible for Deduction | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Secured Debts | Yes | Mortgages, loans against property |
| Unsecured Debts | Yes | Credit card debts, utility bills |
| Debts Not Paid Before Distribution | No | Debts left unpaid and not settled from the estate |
Funeral Costs and Their Implications
Funeral costs are also deductible from the estate’s value before calculating inheritance tax. These costs can include the funeral director’s fees, coffin, flowers, and other related expenses. It’s essential to keep receipts for these expenses to claim them against the estate.
Reasonable funeral costs are generally allowed as a deduction, but it’s crucial to understand what is considered “reasonable.” HMRC guidelines suggest that the costs should be proportionate to the deceased’s circumstances and the size of the estate.
By understanding how debts and funeral costs are treated for inheritance tax, you can better manage the estate and potentially reduce the tax liability. It’s always a good idea to consult with a professional to ensure all eligible deductions are claimed correctly.
Handling Inheritance Tax Returns
The process of handling inheritance tax returns requires careful attention to detail and a clear understanding of the deadlines involved. Executors of estates must ensure that they comply with inheritance tax regulations to avoid any potential penalties.
When to File a Return
Inheritance tax returns must be filed within a specific timeframe. Typically, this is within 12 months from the end of the month in which the deceased died. For example, if the deceased passed away on 15th January, the return would need to be filed by 31st January of the following year.
It’s crucial to be aware of this deadline to avoid late filing penalties. We recommend consulting with a professional to ensure that all necessary steps are taken in a timely manner.
Information Required for Submission
When filing an inheritance tax return, detailed information about the estate’s assets and liabilities is required. This includes:
- Valuations of property, including the main residence and any other real estate
- Details of financial assets, such as bank accounts, investments, and life insurance policies
- Information on debts and other liabilities
- Any gifts made by the deceased in the seven years preceding their death
Accurate and comprehensive information is vital to ensure that the return is processed correctly. We can guide you through this process, helping you to gather the necessary information and submit the return on time.
Planning for the Future
Inheritance tax planning is not just about complying with current laws; it’s about securing your family’s financial future. As we consider the implications of inheritance tax, it’s crucial to look ahead and explore strategies that can help reduce tax liabilities.
Inheritance Tax Planning Methods
There are several methods to consider when planning for inheritance tax. One effective approach is to make gifts during your lifetime. However, it’s essential to understand the rules surrounding gifts, such as the 7-year rule for potentially exempt transfers. Making gifts can be a tax-efficient way to reduce your estate’s value, but it requires careful planning.
Another strategy involves utilizing trusts. Trusts can provide a flexible way to manage your assets and ensure that they are distributed according to your wishes. It’s crucial to seek professional advice when working with solicitors to prepare trust documentation to ensure it is done correctly and in compliance with current laws.
“The key to successful inheritance tax planning is to start early and be proactive. By understanding your options and planning ahead, you can significantly reduce the tax burden on your loved ones.”
Gifts and Their Tax Implications
Gifts can be an effective way to reduce your estate’s value for inheritance tax purposes. However, the tax implications of gifts depend on several factors, including the type of gift and when it was made. Outright gifts to individuals are considered potentially exempt transfers (PETs), which become exempt from inheritance tax if you survive for 7 years after making the gift.
- Gifts to spouses or civil partners are generally exempt from inheritance tax.
- Gifts to charities are also exempt, and can help reduce your estate’s tax liability.
- Gifts made more than 7 years before your death are not subject to inheritance tax.
Understanding these rules can help you make informed decisions about gifting as part of your inheritance tax planning strategy.
The Importance of Professional Advice
Professional guidance is essential for individuals facing the challenges of inheritance tax and estate planning. The complexities of the UK’s inheritance tax laws can be overwhelming, making it crucial to seek advice from qualified professionals.
When to Consult with an Accountant
Consulting with an accountant is a vital step in managing inheritance tax efficiently. An accountant can provide valuable insights into tax-efficient planning, helping you navigate the intricacies of tax returns and ensuring compliance with HMRC regulations.
Some key scenarios where an accountant’s expertise is particularly beneficial include:
- Complex estate situations involving multiple assets or beneficiaries
- Disputes or potential disputes among beneficiaries
- Significant changes in financial circumstances
Benefits of Legal Counsel in Estate Planning
Legal counsel plays a pivotal role in estate planning, offering expert advice on the legal aspects of inheritance tax. Solicitors can help with wills, establish trusts, and provide guidance on other legal matters that can impact your estate’s tax liability.
The benefits of legal counsel in estate planning include:
- Ensuring your will is legally binding and reflects your wishes
- Establishing trusts to protect assets for future generations
- Navigating the legal implications of gifts and other transfers
By combining the expertise of accountants and legal counsel, individuals can ensure they are well-prepared to manage inheritance tax obligations and protect their estate for their loved ones.
Special Considerations for Business Owners
Inheritance tax can significantly impact business owners, but there are reliefs available to mitigate this burden. When a business owner passes away, their business assets are considered part of their estate for inheritance tax purposes.
Business Assets and Inheritance Tax
Business assets, including property, equipment, and goodwill, are subject to inheritance tax. However, the tax implications can be complex, and the value of these assets can significantly affect the overall tax liability.
To accurately assess the value of business assets, it’s essential to consider various factors, including:
- The market value of the assets
- The financial performance of the business
- The industry and market conditions
Reliefs Available for Business Owners
Fortunately, there are reliefs available to help reduce the inheritance tax burden on business owners. One of the most significant reliefs is Business Property Relief (BPR).
BPR can provide relief from inheritance tax on qualifying business assets, potentially reducing the tax liability significantly. To qualify for BPR, the business must meet certain conditions, such as:
- The business must be a trading business, rather than an investment business
- The assets must have been owned by the business for at least two years prior to the date of transfer
It’s crucial for business owners to understand the conditions and limitations of BPR and to seek professional advice to ensure they meet the necessary criteria.
By understanding the special considerations for business owners and the reliefs available, such as BPR, business owners can better navigate the complexities of inheritance tax and ensure that their estate is managed effectively.
Common Myths About Inheritance Tax
There’s a common misconception that spouses are entirely exempt from inheritance tax, but is this true? Inheritance tax laws can be complex, and misunderstandings about spousal gifts and estates are prevalent. We aim to clarify these misconceptions and provide accurate information to help you navigate the intricacies of inheritance tax.
Misconceptions About Spousal Gifts
Many believe that leaving everything to a spouse means no inheritance tax is due. While it’s true that spousal exemption can significantly reduce or eliminate inheritance tax liability, there are limitations and potential future implications to consider.
For instance, when the surviving spouse passes away, their estate (which includes any inheritance from the first spouse) will be subject to inheritance tax. This means that while the first spouse’s estate might not pay inheritance tax due to spousal exemption, the tax liability could arise later.
“The key to understanding inheritance tax is recognising that it’s not just about the current transfer of assets, but also about future implications.” –
The Truth About Inheritance Tax and Estates
Another myth is that only very wealthy individuals need to worry about inheritance tax. However, with the nil rate band and other allowances, many estates are subject to inheritance tax, especially if they include significant assets like property.
It’s crucial to understand that inheritance tax is not just about the value of the estate; it’s also about how assets are structured and transferred. For example, certain gifts made during one’s lifetime can be exempt from inheritance tax if they meet specific criteria.
To navigate these complexities, it’s essential to stay informed and seek professional advice. By understanding the myths and realities of inheritance tax, you can make more informed decisions about your estate planning.
Conclusion: Navigating Inheritance Tax Challenges
Navigating the complexities of inheritance tax can be daunting, especially when it involves spousal inheritance. Understanding the rules and exemptions is crucial to managing your tax obligations effectively.
Key Takeaways
When a spouse leaves you their estate, the tax implications can be significant. Generally, spouses are exempt from inheritance tax due to spousal exemption. However, this exemption has its limitations, and other factors such as the nil rate band and the value of the estate can affect your tax liability.
Seeking Professional Guidance
If you’re wondering “do I pay inheritance tax on money left to me by my spouse,” the answer depends on several factors, including the size of the estate and the specific inheritance tax rules spouse exemptions that apply. It’s essential to seek professional advice to ensure you’re meeting your tax obligations and taking advantage of available reliefs.
By understanding the intricacies of inheritance tax and seeking expert guidance, you can navigate these challenges with confidence and ensure that you’re managing your tax obligations effectively.
FAQ
Do I pay inheritance tax on money left to me by my spouse?
Generally, you don’t pay inheritance tax on assets left to you by your spouse due to the spousal exemption. However, it’s essential to understand that this exemption doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll be exempt from inheritance tax when you pass away.
What is the spousal exemption in the context of inheritance tax?
The spousal exemption is a tax relief that allows you to leave your entire estate to your spouse without incurring inheritance tax. This exemption applies to married couples and civil partners.
Are there any limitations to the spousal exemption?
While the spousal exemption is generous, it’s not without its limitations. For instance, if you leave assets to a non-exempt beneficiary, such as a child or a charity, those assets may be subject to inheritance tax. Additionally, if your estate exceeds certain thresholds, tax may be payable.
How does the nil-rate band work, and when does it apply?
The nil-rate band is the amount of your estate that is exempt from inheritance tax. Currently, this band is £325,000 per individual. When you pass away, any unused nil-rate band can be transferred to your spouse, potentially reducing their inheritance tax liability in the future.
Can I transfer my unused nil-rate band to my spouse?
Yes, you can transfer any unused nil-rate band to your spouse. This means that when your spouse passes away, their estate can benefit from both their own nil-rate band and any unused portion of yours.
How do joint assets and life insurance policies affect inheritance tax?
Joint assets are typically passed to the surviving owner outside of the deceased’s estate, potentially reducing inheritance tax liability. Life insurance policies written in trust can also pass outside of the estate, but policies not in trust may be subject to inheritance tax.
How are debts and funeral expenses treated for inheritance tax purposes?
Debts and funeral expenses are generally deductible when calculating the value of the estate for inheritance tax purposes. This means that they can reduce the overall inheritance tax liability.
When do I need to file an inheritance tax return?
You typically need to file an inheritance tax return when the deceased’s estate is subject to inheritance tax or when the estate’s value exceeds certain thresholds. It’s crucial to file the return accurately and on time to avoid penalties.
What information is required for an inheritance tax return?
The return will require detailed information about the deceased’s assets, debts, and expenses, as well as information about the beneficiaries and any gifts made in the seven years preceding the deceased’s death.
Are there any inheritance tax planning methods I can use to minimize tax liability?
Yes, there are several planning methods you can use, including making gifts, setting up trusts, and utilizing certain exemptions and reliefs. It’s essential to seek professional advice to ensure you’re using the most effective strategies for your situation.
How can business owners minimize inheritance tax on business assets?
Business owners may be eligible for business property relief, which can exempt certain business assets from inheritance tax. To qualify, the business must meet specific conditions, such as being a trading business rather than an investment business.
What are some common misconceptions about inheritance tax?
One common misconception is that leaving everything to your spouse means you’ll reduce your inheritance tax exposure entirely. While the spousal exemption is beneficial, it doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll be exempt from inheritance tax when you pass away. It’s crucial to understand the rules and plan accordingly.
Estate Tax, Inheritance Tax, and Where UK Rules Apply
One point of genuine confusion we see regularly — particularly among families with connections to the United States or other jurisdictions — is the difference between estate tax and inheritance tax. These are distinct legal concepts, and conflating them can lead to costly misunderstandings when planning is underway.
Estate Tax Versus Inheritance Tax: A Key Distinction
In the United States, a federal estate tax is levied on the total value of a deceased person’s estate before assets are distributed to beneficiaries. In the UK, we do not have an estate tax in that sense. Instead, we have Inheritance Tax (IHT), which is also charged on the estate of the deceased before distribution — but it operates under a separate legislative framework governed by the Inheritance Tax Act 1984 and administered by HMRC. If you have encountered references to “estate tax” while researching this topic, those sources may be addressing US law rather than UK law. The two systems are not interchangeable.
Which UK Jurisdictions Does Inheritance Tax Apply To?
Inheritance Tax in the UK is generally a matter reserved to Westminster and applies across England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland. There is no devolved inheritance tax, and no part of the United Kingdom has opted out of the IHT regime. The rules discussed throughout this article — including the Nil Rate Band of £325,000 and the Residence Nil Rate Band of £175,000 — apply uniformly across all four nations, in most cases. If your estate has connections to the Channel Islands, Isle of Man, or overseas territories, different rules may apply, and we would typically recommend seeking advice from a regulated professional familiar with the relevant jurisdiction.
Why Domicile Changes Everything
One area where geography becomes critically important is domicile. The spousal exemption discussed earlier in this article is unlimited where both spouses are UK-domiciled. However, where the surviving spouse is not domiciled in the UK, the exemption is currently capped at £325,000 — matching the standard Nil Rate Band threshold. In our experience, this is one of the most frequently overlooked planning points in estates with an international dimension. HMRC’s guidance on domicile and IHT can be found in HMRC’s Inheritance Tax Manual at IHTM13000. If there is any uncertainty about your or your spouse’s domicile status, this is an area where engaging a regulated adviser early is likely to be money well spent.
Common Questions About Inheritance Tax and Spouses
When a spouse dies, do you have to pay inheritance tax?
In most cases, no — when a spouse or civil partner dies and leaves their entire estate to the surviving spouse, no Inheritance Tax will be due at that point. Assets passing between spouses who are both UK-domiciled are generally outside the scope of IHT under the spousal exemption. However, this does not mean IHT has been eliminated permanently; it may simply be deferred. The full tax position is typically assessed when the second spouse later dies and passes assets to children or other beneficiaries.
Does a spouse have to pay inheritance tax?
As a rule, a surviving spouse does not pay Inheritance Tax on assets they receive from their deceased spouse, provided both parties are UK-domiciled. It is worth being clear that Inheritance Tax is charged on the estate, not on the individual beneficiary receiving assets. The responsibility for calculating and paying any IHT due rests with the executor or personal representative of the deceased’s estate, using estate funds — not funds belonging to the surviving spouse personally. HMRC’s guidance on who is liable to pay is set out at gov.uk/paying-inheritance-tax.
What is the spousal exemption for inheritance tax?
The spousal exemption — formally the spouse or civil partner exemption — means that transfers of assets between UK-domiciled spouses or civil partners are generally outside the scope of IHT, with no upper limit on the value that may pass free of tax. This applies both to lifetime gifts and to transfers on death. The exemption extends to civil partners recognised under the Civil Partnership Act 2004, but does not typically apply to unmarried cohabiting partners, regardless of how long they have lived together.
Are spouses subject to inheritance tax?
Not on what they receive from each other, in most cases. Where the complexity arises is on the second death. At that point, the combined estate may be substantial, but the surviving spouse’s estate can typically benefit from a transferred Nil Rate Band of up to £325,000 from the first spouse, and a transferred Residence Nil Rate Band of up to £175,000, assuming the family home eventually passes to direct descendants. This means a surviving spouse’s estate may be able to pass on up to £1,000,000 before Inheritance Tax becomes payable — a figure that receives far less attention than it deserves. In our experience, achieving that full £1,000,000 threshold requires careful Will drafting on both deaths; we have seen estates lose the transferred Nil Rate Band entirely because the first spouse’s Will directed assets to a discretionary trust or to children directly, inadvertently using up the NRB that could otherwise have been carried forward.
Does a spouse pay any inheritance tax?
There are limited circumstances where a surviving spouse may be affected by an IHT liability even where the spousal exemption applies. For example, if the deceased had made significant gifts in the seven years before death, those gifts may reduce the available Nil Rate Band and create a charge on the estate — which could affect the liquid assets available to the surviving spouse. Similarly, if assets pass partly to a spouse and partly to others in the same estate, the non-exempt portion may attract IHT that the executor must settle before distributing the estate. These situations are less common but worth understanding before assuming no action is needed.