Help! What Inheritance Tax forms do I need?
When someone dies, one of the most important tasks for the Personal Representative (Executor or Administrator) is figuring out which Inheritance Tax forms to fill out. But with so many forms and rules, it can quickly feel overwhelming. Don’t worry, we’re here to help make sense of it all. Let’s break it down into simple steps, based on the type of estate you’re dealing with.
Forms based on estate type
Before you can decide which form to use, it’s helpful to make a rough estimate of the estate’s value. This includes assets like property, savings, and possessions. You don’t need exact figures right away - just your best guess based on what information you have. This estimate will help you decide whether the estate is simple or complex.
Here’s how the forms usually work:
Form IHT205 is used for smaller or simpler estates. You can use this form if:
- The total value of the estate is below £325,000, or;
- The estate is below £650,000 and includes a Transferred Nil Rate Band from a late spouse or civil partner, or;
- The estate is under £1 million, and most assets are going to a surviving spouse or civil partner.
Form IHT400 is for larger or more complex estates. You’ll need this if:
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The estate is worth over £325,000 and does not qualify for one of the exceptions above.
Remember, these limits are based on the gross value of the estate, which means the total value before subtracting any debts like mortgages or loans. If the estate ends up being more complex than expected, or you go over one of the limits, you’ll need to stop using IHT205 and switch to the IHT400 instead.
Common supplementary forms
If you’re using Form IHT400, you’ll also need to complete some additional forms, depending on the circumstances. These are called supplementary pages, and they cover specific situations, like:
- Form IHT402: Used if you’re claiming a Transferable Nil Rate Band from a late spouse or civil partner;
- Form IHT403: For listing gifts made in the last seven years;
- Form IHT404: Covers jointly owned assets;
- Form IHT436: If you’re applying for business or agricultural relief
There are others too - the full list is available on the HMRC website.
These extra forms help HMRC understand all the details of the estate, especially when claiming reliefs or exemptions.
Where to get Inheritance Tax forms
You can get all the Inheritance Tax forms directly from the government’s official website at www.gov.uk/inheritance-tax. The site includes both PDF versions and spreadsheets (such as the Master Financial Summary) that can help with your calculations. These tools are useful for keeping track of the estate’s value and updating figures as you get more accurate information.
If you're completing Form IHT400, you’ll also need to get an IHT Reference Number from HMRC. You can apply for this online, and it’s a good idea to do so at least three weeks before you plan to make any tax payments. You only need this reference number if you're submitting the full IHT400 account, not the IHT205.
How to submit Inheritance Tax forms
Once your forms are complete and you’ve gathered any supporting documents (like valuations or bank statements), you’re ready to submit them.
For estates in England and Wales, send your completed Inheritance Tax forms to:
HMRC Trusts and Estates
Ferrers House
PO Box 38
Castle Meadow Road
Nottingham
NG2 1BB
If you need help, you can call HMRC on 0300 123 1072 or visit gov.uk/inheritance-tax for more guidance.
Choosing the right Inheritance Tax forms doesn’t have to be stressful. Start by estimating the estate’s value, use the right form based on that estimate, and seek help if you’re unsure. Mistakes can be costly, so don’t be afraid to ask for expert advice - even if it’s just on one part of the process.
If you’re ever in doubt, speaking to a probate professional or tax advisor could save you time, stress, and money in the long run.
