Major reforms to Business Relief (BR) and Agricultural Relief (AR) will take effect from 6 April 2026. These changes could significantly increase your inheritance tax liability if you do not act now.
The government has confirmed sweeping changes to Inheritance Tax Business Relief and Agricultural Relief, representing the most significant shift in succession planning for a generation.
From April 2026:
- Only the first £1m of combined agricultural and business property will qualify for 100% relief.
- Assets above this threshold will attract only 50% relief.
- Trust rules will be tightened, and transitional provisions could leave families with unexpected tax bills.
If your estate includes business assets, agricultural property, or trusts, it is vital you review your plans way in advance of April 2026. Waiting could mean a costly inheritance tax charge for your family.
Why this matters for business owners
Without timely planning, the new rules could have serious financial and operational consequences:
- Your business may need to be sold or broken up to cover an unexpected tax bill
- Passing shares or assets into a trust could trigger tax charges you thought you were avoiding
- Relief on AIM shares and other unlisted assets will be halved, potentially wiping out part of your succession plan
Why this matters for private clients and families
Even if you don’t run a business, the reforms could still cost your family dearly:
- Couples cannot share or transfer their £1m allowance. If it isn’t used, it’s lost
- Gifts made after April 2026 could trigger immediate lifetime IHT charges above the allowance
- Inadequate planning could see children and loved ones inheriting a large tax liability rather than the wealth that you planned for them
We can help you
We are offering a complimentary 20-minute health check to help you quickly assess:
- Whether your business assets or trusts still qualify for relief
- What immediate actions may reduce exposure to IHT
- How best to structure your estate plan before April 2026
Act now – time is running out! Decisions taken before April 2026 could save your family hundreds of thousands in unnecessary tax.
Book your complimentary 20-minute health check
For every health check booked or enquiry made, we will also send you the following helpful brochures:
- Ten Point Health Check for Business Owners
- Seven Immediate Actions for Trustees before IHT Changes
Our expert team has been advising business owners, trustees, and private clients on inheritance tax and succession planning for decades. With these reforms fast approaching, we can help you safeguard your family’s future.
Don’t delay – book your complimentary health check today.