US·UK Accountants

Glossary · Property & Estate

Long-Term Resident (UK IHT)

From 6 April 2025 the UK bases inheritance tax on long-term residence rather than domicile. Someone UK-resident for 10 of the previous 20 years is a long-term resident, exposed to UK inheritance tax on worldwide assets, with a 3–10 year tail after leaving.

SH

By Sam H., Founder & Lead Advisor

Reviewed by Katie M.

In more detail

The UK replaced the domicile-based inheritance tax system with a residence-based one on 6 April 2025. A long-term resident — broadly UK-resident for 10 of the last 20 tax years — is within UK inheritance tax on worldwide assets, and a tail of between 3 and 10 years can keep that exposure running after departure. UK real estate remains within UK inheritance tax regardless of residence. The change significantly widened exposure for long-staying Americans.

Does Long-Term Resident (UK IHT) apply to your situation?

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