How to start the conversation about Inheritance Tax

 Last Reviewed June 2026

Conversations about inheritance can be difficult, but avoiding them can create uncertainty, family disagreements and unnecessary tax liabilities. Having open discussions about your wishes, assets and succession plans can help ensure your family is prepared and your estate is distributed in line with your intentions.

1. Talk to your family about inheritance tax. This includes your spouse, children, and other close relatives. Inheritance tax can be a complex topic, so it's important that everyone is on the same page.

2. Have an inheritance tax plan in place. This will help to ensure that you're not paying more inheritance tax than you need to.

3. Get professional help. If you're not sure how to start the conversation about inheritance tax, consider seeking out professional help. At Nathan Trust, we can help you to understand the ins and outs of inheritance tax and how it might affect your family.

4. Be prepared to answer questions. Your family members are likely to have a lot of questions about inheritance tax. Be prepared to answer them as best you can. If you don't know the answer to a question, don't be afraid to say so. You can always look up the answer later.

5. Be patient. Inheritance tax can be a sensitive topic for some people. It's important to be patient and respectful when discussing it.

6. Remember that inheritance tax planning is an ongoing process. Your family's situation may change over time, so it's important to review your inheritance tax plan on a regular basis.

Talking about inheritance tax can be difficult, but it's important to have the conversation. 

Every family's circumstances are different. Whether you are considering wealth transfer, business succession, gifting strategies or general inheritance planning, professional advice can help ensure your wishes are implemented in a tax-efficient manner.