Independent advice for your estate planning needs
Estate Planning and Inheritance Tax (IHT) can seem daunting – but they don’t have to be.
With a personalised and flexible financial plan, you can reduce uncertainty, minimise the tax burden on your estate, and – most importantly – achieve clarity and peace of mind for you and your loved ones.
Here’s how our qualified and experienced Lifestyle Planners will work with you:
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First, we’ll learn more about you
We’ll take the time to understand your goals, aspirations, the legacy you want to leave, and what matters most to you and your beneficiaries when it comes to estate planning, before explaining how we work and deciding if we’re a good fit to support you going forward.
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Then, we’ll build a full picture of your estate
We’ll review your entire estate – from the property you own to your investments, pensions and beyond to assess your potential IHT exposure and any other existing arrangements you have in place, such as wills and trusts.
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From there, we’ll create a bespoke and flexible plan
We’ll tailor your plan to help you pass your wealth on to loved ones efficiently, reduce tax where possible, and support your beneficiaries where needed. As your trusted partners, we’ll stay on top of the ever-changing rules and legislation, helping you understand what they mean for you and ensuring your plan continues to support your goals as your circumstances evolve.
Throughout your estate planning journey, you’ll be supported by a Chartered firm that meets the highest professional and ethical standards – so you can feel confident in the decisions you make about your legacy. It’s all part of ensuring your plans are shaped with care, expertise and a long-term focus on protecting what matters most to you and those you care about.
What IHT changes should you be aware of?
Inheritance Tax rules and allowances can change over time, and upcoming reforms may affect how some people choose to pass on wealth.
For example, from April 2027, most unused pension funds and death benefits are expected to be included in a person’s estate for IHT purposes.
Thresholds are also currently frozen, which could mean more estates fall within scope as asset values rise.
What do our clients have to say?
Hear from our clients about how our estate planning and inheritance tax services have supported them over the years:
“Attivo has been extremely helpful with overall financial planning… pensions, ISAs, inheritance tax planning, life insurance; I rely on them for all my investments.”
– Laurence Gilford
“Attivo quells any anxieties I have about financial instabilities in the future, giving me clear information that I can make decisions about.”
– Tony O’Brien
“I take my hat off to the team at Attivo, they’ve been really good. I get on really well with the guy I liaise with, Joe Bergin, and I trust him.”
– Phil Cooper
Explore our estate planning and IHT resources:
Explore our range of specialist resources below to get started:
IHT and estate planning guide
Discover how estate planning can help reduce unnecessary tax and ensure your wealth goes to those who matter most:
IHT calculator
Get an estimate of your potential IHT bill with our dedicated calculator:
Attend your local IHT Seminar
Learn how upcoming changes to IHT may affect you and the steps you can take to prepare.
Deep dive into estate planning and IHT expertise with our dedicated articles:
6 ways to prepare for IHT changes in April 2027
Discover six practical steps to prepare for upcoming changes to IHT.
Pensions and inheritance tax: what’s changing in 2027
What’s changing from April 2027 – and who will be affected?
Four ways to protect your pension from inheritance tax
What can be done to safeguard your hard-earned pension?
Got a question about estate planning or IHT?
What is estate planning – and why is it important?
Estate planning is the process of planning for the management of your estate in preparation for – and following – your death. It’s an important process as it can help you pass on your wealth in line with your wishes, and may reduce the amount of IHT due.
When should I start estate planning?
Ideally, the sooner the better. Early planning typically gives you more options and flexibility, particularly when it comes to gifting, structuring assets and making use of allowances over time.
What is IHT?
Inheritance Tax (IHT) is a tax on the estate of someone who has passed away. This tax is levied by the government and is payable by the estate before any assets are distributed to beneficiaries. IHT is currently charged at 40% for estates valued on or over £325,000 (the rate is lower in certain situations, however – for example, it is 36% if you give 10% of your net estate to charity).
Can married couples or civil partners reduce IHT?
Yes. Transfers between spouses or civil partners are usually exempt from Inheritance Tax. Any unused allowances can also be passed on, which may increase the overall threshold available when the second partner dies.
Are gifts subject to Inheritance Tax?
Gifting can be an effective way to reduce the value of your estate, but some gifts may still be taken into account for tax purposes depending on when they’re made and their value.
What is the 7-year rule?
In general, gifts made during your lifetime may fall outside of your estate for IHT purposes if you live for seven years after making them. If not, they could still be considered when calculating tax.
Can I reduce my Inheritance Tax bill?
There are a number of ways to help reduce your potential IHT liability, including gifting and using available allowances. In some cases, life insurance written in trust may also be considered as a way to help beneficiaries meet an expected IHT bill, although it does not reduce the liability itself. The right approach will depend on your circumstances, goals and the level of flexibility you need, and planning ahead can make a meaningful difference to how much is eventually payable.
What changes are coming to IHT in April 2027 – and how might that affect me?
From April 2027, most unused pension funds and death benefits will be included in a deceased person’s estate for IHT purposes – meaning that these will no longer be a means of passing on wealth free of IHT. This could mean more estates fall within scope for IHT, making proactive planning even more important.
Ready to start estate planning?
The sooner you begin, the more options you’ll have in the long run.
Book your free consultation with a member of our team today to get started. There’s no obligation to use our services afterwards, but it’s a great opportunity to discuss your goals and next steps and get the ball rolling.
If you do decide to become an Attivo client, charges may apply – these will be explained before you commit.