Dealing with the death of a loved one is never easy. Amid the emotional stress, many people are faced with the unfamiliar and complex task of managing an estate, and this includes understanding and paying Inheritance Tax. One common question is: Who do I speak to for help?
Whether you’re an executor, solicitor, or family member, the HMRC Inheritance Tax Helpline is one of the primary resources for navigating this process in the UK.
This guide explains exactly what the helpline is, how to use it effectively, and what you need to know before and after contacting HMRC.
What Is Inheritance Tax in the UK and Why Does It Matter?
Inheritance Tax (IHT) is a tax on the estate, the property, money, and possessions, of someone who has died. Not all estates are liable, but for those that are, failing to manage and report this correctly can lead to serious delays, legal issues, and financial penalties.
The tax typically applies if the estate’s total value exceeds the £325,000 threshold, known as the nil-rate band. Anything above this may be taxed at 40%, though exemptions and reliefs (such as passing assets to a spouse or charity) can reduce this.
The responsibility for declaring and paying the tax falls on the executor or administrator of the estate, making it critical to engage with HMRC early and ensure all details are accurate.
Who Needs to Contact HMRC About Inheritance Tax?
You’ll need to contact HMRC if you are:
- The executor named in the deceased person’s will
- An administrator handling the estate where no will exists
- A solicitor managing the estate on behalf of a family
- A trustee where a trust is involved in the estate distribution
Even if you’re not paying tax (e.g. if the estate is below the threshold), you may still need to submit documentation such as form IHT205 or IHT400, depending on the estate’s complexity.
Why Is It Important to Use the HMRC Inheritance Tax Helpline?
The HMRC Inheritance Tax Helpline exists to assist people in fulfilling their legal duties during a difficult time. While online forms and guides are available, the helpline offers real-time, human support to answer specific questions or clarify doubts.
Benefits of using the helpline include:
- Understanding your responsibilities as an executor or administrator
- Confirming which forms you need to complete
- Ordering paper copies of forms if required
- Getting help with form completion
- Clarifying payment procedures or deadlines
While the helpline cannot offer financial planning or advice about how to avoid Inheritance Tax, it is the most reliable source for guidance on the reporting and payment process.
Real-Life Example: Estate Valuation Confusion
Emma was responsible for handling her father’s estate, which included shares, property, and premium bonds. Despite reading online guidance, she remained unsure how to value certain investments.
A call to the HMRC Inheritance Tax Helpline helped her understand which valuation dates to use and what supporting evidence HMRC expected. This prevented errors that might have delayed her probate application.
How Do You Get Help with HMRC Inheritance Tax Helpline?
Navigating the Inheritance Tax process can be overwhelming, especially when you’re trying to meet deadlines or complete complex forms. Thankfully, HMRC offers multiple contact options to ensure that help is accessible regardless of your specific situation.
Whether you’re an executor managing an estate or a solicitor acting on behalf of a client, the HMRC Inheritance Tax Helpline can provide essential guidance.
Phone Support
The most direct and commonly used method of contacting HMRC for Inheritance Tax enquiries is by telephone. This option is ideal if you need immediate assistance, have a time-sensitive question, or require clarification on complex issues.
- UK contact number: 0300 123 1072
- International callers: +44 300 123 1072
- Opening hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Closed on: Bank holidays
Calls to 0300 numbers are charged at the same rate as calls to standard UK landlines and may be included in mobile or landline call bundles.
When calling, be prepared to provide details such as the name and date of death of the deceased, your role in managing the estate, and any reference numbers if previously issued. If the digital assistant answers first, you can request to speak to a human adviser when prompted.
Postal Correspondence
If your enquiry involves sending forms, written explanations, or supporting documents, contacting HMRC by post is the appropriate route. Ensure you include all relevant information to avoid delays, such as your IHT reference number and full contact details.
For general correspondence and form submissions:
Inheritance Tax
HM Revenue and Customs
BX9 1HT
United Kingdom
This address is used for submitting forms like IHT400, IHT205, and IHT122, as well as for sending any written enquiries.
For sending Inheritance Tax payments (e.g. cheque payments):
Inheritance Tax Team
HM Revenue and Customs
BX5 5BD
United Kingdom
Make sure you use the correct Inheritance Tax reference number (not the online estate report reference) when sending payments to ensure they are properly allocated.
Tip: Allow at least 3 working days for payments sent by post to reach HMRC and be processed.
Online Digital Assistant
For straightforward queries or quick help outside of business hours, HMRC provides a web-based digital assistant.
This AI-powered tool is useful for:
- Understanding how to value an estate
- Checking how to pay Inheritance Tax
- Getting general guidance about Inheritance Tax forms
The digital assistant is accessible from HMRC’s Inheritance Tax pages and offers a convenient first step for basic enquiries.
However, it’s important to note that it cannot assist with cases where the IHT400 form has already been submitted, or when the enquiry requires personalised support. In such situations, the assistant will prompt you to speak with a human adviser, if one is available.
Which Contact Method Should You Use?
| Scenario | Recommended Method |
| You need to ask about payment deadlines | Phone or digital assistant |
| You’ve submitted IHT400 and need an update | Phone or post |
| You need to send a completed form | Post |
| You have a general question about valuation | Digital assistant |
| You need help from outside the UK | Phone (+44 300 123 1072) |
By choosing the right method and preparing your information in advance, you can make the most of the HMRC Inheritance Tax Helpline and reduce the likelihood of delays or errors in the estate administration process.
What Information Will HMRC Ask When You Contact Them?
To provide accurate support, HMRC will usually ask for the following:
- Full name and date of death of the deceased
- HMRC reference number (if previously issued)
- Purpose of your call or letter (e.g. payment issue, form clarification, reference number request)
- Your role in the estate (executor, solicitor, etc.)
- Whether you’ve already submitted forms like IHT400 or IHT205
Having this information ready helps HMRC provide faster and more accurate assistance.
What Should You Prepare Before Contacting the Inheritance Tax Helpline?
Preparation is key to a smooth call or correspondence with HMRC.
Here’s what you should gather in advance:
- Death certificate of the deceased
- Valuation of estate assets, including property, savings, investments, and possessions
- Completed or draft forms, such as IHT400, IHT205, or IHT122
- Your own contact details and authorisation if calling on someone else’s behalf
- Probate application status (if applicable)
If you’re applying for an Inheritance Tax reference number for a trust, you must complete form IHT122, which cannot be submitted online and must be sent by post at least 3 weeks before any payment is made.
What Happens After You Contact HMRC?
Confirmation and Follow-up
After your initial contact, HMRC may reply by phone or post, depending on the nature of your enquiry. If your request was straightforward, such as ordering paper forms or asking a basic question, you may receive an answer immediately.
Reference Number Timelines
If you’re applying for an Inheritance Tax reference number, it typically takes up to 3 weeks to be issued. Make sure this step is completed well in advance of your intended payment date.
Form Processing
If you’ve submitted a full IHT400 form, processing may take several weeks, especially if the estate is complex or further documentation is required. HMRC will contact you if any clarification is needed.
What Is the Difference Between HMRC and HMCTS for Inheritance and Probate?
As of 2 October 2023, the Inheritance Tax and Probate Helpline was split into two separate services. This change was introduced to reduce confusion and improve efficiency.
| Department | Purpose | Phone Number | |
| HMRC | Inheritance Tax queries | 0300 123 1072 | Not available |
| HMCTS | Probate queries | 0300 303 0648 | contactprobate@justice.gov.uk |
While HMRC handles tax forms, payments, and estate valuations, HMCTS is responsible for issuing probate or letters of administration. Calling the wrong department may delay your enquiry, but both aim to redirect calls correctly where possible.
Where to Send Inheritance Tax Payments and Correspondence?
There are two distinct addresses based on the type of correspondence:
| Type of Correspondence | HMRC Address |
| General enquiries, IHT400, IHT122 submissions | HMRC, Inheritance Tax, BX9 1HT, United Kingdom |
| Payments (e.g. cheque) | HMRC, Inheritance Tax Team, BX5 5BD, United Kingdom |
Always include your IHT reference number, not the estate report reference, on any documents or payments to avoid processing delays.
Who to Contact for Probate vs Inheritance Tax: HMRC or HMCTS?
Knowing which organisation to contact can help you avoid wasted time and unnecessary phone calls.
Probate (HMCTS)
If you need to know whether probate is required, need help with lost wills, or want updates on probate application timelines, you should contact HMCTS.
Inheritance Tax (HMRC)
If your questions relate to tax forms, payment amounts, reference numbers, deductions, or estate valuation, HMRC is the proper department.
This separation ensures that each department can focus on its area of expertise, improving the experience for UK citizens handling estates.
Conclusion
The HMRC Inheritance Tax Helpline is a crucial support system for anyone managing an estate in the UK. Whether you’re submitting forms, making payments, or simply trying to understand your responsibilities, knowing how to contact HMRC, and being prepared when you do, can save time, stress, and costly mistakes.
Be proactive, gather your documents early, and use the correct contact methods. With the right guidance, navigating Inheritance Tax doesn’t have to be overwhelming.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take HMRC to process an Inheritance Tax payment?
Payments typically take 3 working days to process once received. However, allow time for postal delivery and internal processing.
Can I speak to a real person about my Inheritance Tax issue?
Yes. By calling 0300 123 1072, you can request to speak with a live HMRC adviser if the digital assistant cannot help.
Is the HMRC digital assistant reliable for complex queries?
It’s suitable for basic questions but cannot address submitted IHT400-related issues. In such cases, you’ll need to speak to an adviser.
What documents do I need to contact HMRC about Inheritance Tax?
You’ll need the deceased’s name, date of death, any reference numbers, and details of your role and enquiry.
Are there any call charges when dialling the HMRC helpline?
Calls to 0300 numbers are charged at the same rate as standard UK landlines and may be included in mobile or landline plans.
Can solicitors or legal representatives call HMRC on my behalf?
Yes, as long as they are authorised, such as being named in the will or holding power of attorney.
Is it possible to make Inheritance Tax payments online?
Yes. Payments can be made via online banking, BACS, or CHAPS. Cheques can also be posted to HMRC’s payment address.
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