Pensions and IHT: Preparing for the New Regime

A major shift in pension taxation is on the horizon which could have serious implications for your estate planning. This brand-new Special Report is designed to help you understand and navigate the upcoming changes with confidence.
Announced in the Autumn 2024 Budget by Chancellor Rachel Reeves, the new rules will come into effect on 6 April 2027, bringing most pension savings into the scope of inheritance tax (IHT). This marks a dramatic departure from the current system, where pensions are typically excluded from IHT calculations.
Why you need to prepare now
The government estimates that 50,000 additional estates will be liable for IHT in 2027/28 alone. And that number is expected to grow. Whether you're still contributing to your pension or already drawing from it, these changes could significantly increase your estate’s tax burden.
This Special Report is essential reading for anyone with pension savings - including final salary schemes and personal pension plans. It offers clear, actionable insights to help you plan ahead and protect your legacy.
What’s inside?
- Chapter 1: A clear overview of the current IHT rules for pensions, valid until April 2027
- Chapter 2: A breakdown of the upcoming changes and how they affect different types of pension
- Chapter 3: Tax-planning strategies to help you prepare and potentially reduce or avoid IHT
- Chapter 4: Appendices with practical tools, examples, and guidance to support your planning
Whether you're an accountant, taxadvisor or individual looking to safeguard your estate, this guide will help you make informed decisions before the new rules take effect.
Type of product | |
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Identifier (EAN / ISSN / Action Code) | 9781911744436 |
Availability | In stock |
Publisher | Lefebvre UK |
Publication Date | Sep 26, 2025 |
Table of contents
1. Pension savings and inheritance tax - background
1.1. What’s the IHT position on pension savings before April 2027?
1.2. What types of pension scheme currently escape IHT?
1.3. Are there circumstances where IHT might be payable on pension savings?
1.4. Are there any other tax considerations for inherited pension savings?
1.5. Is there any IHT planning that can be done before April 2027?
2. Pensions and IHT from April 2027
2.1. What’s changing and when?
2.2. Are there any exceptions to IHT post-April 2027?
2.3. Who works out the IHT and pays it?
2.4. What will the financial impact be for beneficiaries of pension savings?
2.5. Will income tax apply to all inherited pension savings and benefits?
2.6. The interaction of IHT and income tax - what are the potential problems?
3.1. When can I start tax planning for the new IHT regime?
3.2. When do I need to consider IHT and income tax planning?
3.3. How do I access my pension savings and benefits?
3.4. How do I use a tax-free lump sum?
3.5. How could I use pension income?