More families are being caught by inheritance tax as frozen tax thresholds and rising asset values continue to push increasing numbers of estates into the tax net.

HMRC’s latest figures show inheritance tax receipts reached £2.3 billion between April and June 2026, an increase of £96 million compared with the same period last year.

Speaking in Today’s Wills and Probate magazine, Corrinne Emmett, Senior Business Development Manager at wealth management company ZEDRA, said the trend was likely to continue.

“The nil rate band has remained frozen at £325,000 since 2009 and is currently set to remain unchanged until 2030, which means that more estates than ever before will be subject to IHT,” she said.

“As a result, people are naturally becoming more concerned about the potential impact of IHT on their estates, and their ability to pass on hard-earned wealth to future generations or chosen beneficiaries.”

Ms Emmett also warned that further changes are on the way, with most unused pension funds expected to become subject to inheritance tax from the 2027/28 tax year. She said inheritance tax planning was no longer relevant only to very wealthy families, adding that taking professional advice early and reviewing arrangements regularly could make a significant difference to preserving family wealth.

For many families, the first step is simply ensuring they have an up-to-date will. A professionally prepared will can help ensure assets pass to the intended beneficiaries and can make full use of available inheritance tax allowances where appropriate.

Regular reviews are also important. Rising house prices, changes in family circumstances and new tax rules can all affect an estate plan. A will written many years ago may no longer reflect either a family’s wishes or the most tax-efficient way of passing on assets.

Families should also consider seeking professional inheritance tax advice well before it becomes necessary. Depending on individual circumstances, measures such as making lifetime gifts, using available exemptions and structuring assets appropriately can reduce future inheritance tax liabilities. The right approach will vary from one family to another, making tailored advice particularly valuable.

With inheritance tax receipts continuing to rise and further rule changes approaching, reviewing wills and estate plans sooner rather than later could help families protect more of their wealth for future generations.

Please contact us if you would like advice about wills and probate, and inheritance tax planning.