Frequently asked questions
+What allowances does everyone get?
Each person has a basic allowance (nil-rate band) of £325,000. A residence allowance of up to £175,000 may also apply when a home passes to children, grandchildren or other direct descendants. Above that, inheritance tax is usually charged at 40%.
+Is the residence allowance automatic if I own a home?
No. It only applies to the part of a home's value that passes to direct descendants, and it is limited to that value. It is reduced by £1 for every £2 the estate exceeds £2 million.
+We're married — do we get double the allowances?
Not automatically. Unused allowances can transfer to a surviving spouse or civil partner, so the second estate may benefit from up to double. How much transfers depends on what was used on the first death.
+We live together but aren't married. Can we share allowances?
No. Unmarried partners cannot transfer unused allowances, and assets left to an unmarried partner are not exempt in the way spouse gifts are.
+Are pensions included?
Most unused pension funds are currently outside the estate. From 6 April 2027 most unused pension funds and death benefits are expected to be included. Registered-scheme death-in-service benefits remain outside. The calculator shows both views side by side.
+What does the calculator not cover?
Lifetime gifts, trusts, business and agricultural relief, charitable legacies, overseas assets, spouse exemptions within an individual calculation and downsizing. If any apply we flag them and recommend a review rather than show an apparently complete figure.
+What happens after I send my results?
Your answers and results are securely stored and passed to Anthony Marshall, who will contact you using your preferred method to arrange a 20-minute conversation. There is no obligation.