Estimate inheritance tax quickly and simply
This quick inheritance tax calculator provides a general estimate of inheritance tax for a straightforward estate in England and Wales. It is designed for cases where you want an early indication of how much, if any, inheritance tax may be payable. It reflects the rules as they stand today, so unused pension funds are not included. Find out how the pension rules change from 2027.
When to Use This Calculator
This calculator is designed for straightforward estates and provides an estimate of inheritance tax liability but is not a substitute for professional advice.
Do use the quick inheritance calculator if:
- the estate is straightforward and easy to value
- you want to understand the impact of the £325,000 nil rate band
- you want to understand the impact of the residence nil-rate band
- you want to understand the impact of charitable gifts
- you want a quick estimate of inheritance tax liability
The quick inheritance Tax Calculator is not for complex estates.
Do not use if:
- gifts have been made in the last 7 years
- assets are held in trusts
- the estate includes business assets or agricultural property
- the estate is high value and requires detailed taper calculations
- there are complex ownership structures or foreign assets
In these cases, inheritance tax calculations can be significantly more complex and a simple estimate may not reflect the true position. In these scenarios, we recommend you book a complimentary consultation with a probate solicitor to discuss the Inheritance Tax position. You can arrange a free probate legal consultation via The Probate Network.
What this quick inheritance tax calculator does
This calculator provides a straightforward estimate of inheritance tax based on:
• the total value of the estate
• debts and liabilities
• assets passing to a spouse or civil partner
• gifts to charity
• the value of a home passing to direct descendants
• any transferable inheritance tax allowances
It applies the standard inheritance tax framework in England and Wales, including:
• the £325,000 nil-rate band (where applicable)
• the residence nil-rate band (up to £175,000) where applicable
• transferable allowances between spouses or civil partners
• the standard 40% inheritance tax rate
This makes it ideal for getting a quick snapshot of the tax position for a relatively simple estate.
What You Will Need to Use the Quick Inheritance Tax Calculator
Before using the quick inheritance tax calculator, you should have an estimate of the gross estate value, any debts and liabilities, the amount passing to a spouse or civil partner, the amount passing to charity, the value of any home passing to direct descendants, and whether any transferable inheritance tax allowances may be available from a late spouse or civil partner. You may want to use our calculator that helps you to calculate the gross value of a probate estate Estate.
If you are unsure on what any of these terms and allowances mean, we provide guidance and explanations below the calculator.
Quick Inheritance Tax Calculator
Estimate potential inheritance tax in England and Wales. This calculator is for general guidance only and does not replace legal or tax advice.
Estimated inheritance tax due
Main calculation
Allowance detail
Need help with inheritance tax or probate?
Speak with a probate professional who can help you understand your options, the likely tax position and the next steps for the estate.
Request a free consultation with a probate solicitorWhat the quick inheritance tax calculator fields mean
Gross estate value
This is the total value of everything owned by the person who has died before any deductions are made. It can include property, savings, investments, personal possessions and other assets.
Debts, liabilities and funeral costs
This is the total of any amounts that may reduce the estate for inheritance tax purposes, such as mortgages, loans, unpaid bills and funeral expenses.
Amount passing to spouse or civil partner
Assets left to a surviving spouse or civil partner are often exempt from inheritance tax. This field allows the calculator to take that possible exemption into account.
Amount passing to charity
Gifts to qualifying charities are usually exempt from inheritance tax. This field helps reduce the taxable estate where charitable gifts are being made.
Value of home passing to direct descendants
This refers to the value of a home that is being left to direct descendants, such as children or grandchildren. It is relevant because it may allow the estate to benefit from the residence nil-rate band.
Transferable nil-rate band
This is any unused nil-rate band that may be transferred from a late spouse or civil partner. Where available, it can increase the inheritance tax allowance and reduce the amount of tax due.
Compare with no transferable allowances
This option shows how the estimated inheritance tax position changes if no transferable allowances are available. It can help show the value of any transferred allowances included in the calculation.
If your calculation reveals a significant Inheritance Tax liability, a probate loan can help executors pay HMRC before estate assets are sold or distributed.
