Confirmation After Tax, Scotland

How can we help?

Small and large estates must be assessed for inheritance tax (IHT), income tax, and capital gains tax. Executors must pay these taxes or seek a tax refund if applicable. Large estates might benefit from the unused nil rate band, reducing IHT liability. This is where Jones Whyte can help as we have a team of experts who can help you navigate the complex tax requirements and complete the necessary forms accurately.

We can also support with the local sheriff court requirements when applying for confirmation, ensuring all legal requirements are met. Executors must account for the total value of the deceased’s assets, including any excepted estates and other property. Funeral expenses and outstanding debts must also be paid from the estate’s funds before distribution to beneficiaries. Our team of experts will ensure the confirmation process is handled exactly as required by the Scottish law.

Are you planning ahead?

If you are planning your estate, your main priority will be making sure your family is looked after. You won’t want them having to ask questions like “How to file a tax return for a deceased person?” so it is important you work with an experienced estate planning solicitor to help you prepare.

There are three main areas of tax which your loved one may need to deal with after your death. These are:

Inheritance Tax in Scotland

Inheritance tax (IHT) in Scotland is a tax on the estate of a deceased person, assets include property, money, and possessions. The current threshold for IHT is £325,000; estates valued above this are taxed at 40%. Transfers between spouses or civil partners are exempt, and unused portions of the threshold can be transferred to a surviving partner. Executors must submit inheritance tax forms and pay any IHT due before distributing the estate. Certain reliefs and exemptions, such as the unused nil rate band, can reduce the IHT liability. Jones Whyte can advise on how best to navigate these complexities.

Income Tax in Scotland

Income tax is chargeable on your salary or income from self-employment, pensions, interest on savings, income from shares, rental income and income from trusts.

If you earn any of these, your loved ones may need to complete an HMRC deceased tax return. It makes sense to seek expert advice when completing a tax return for a deceased person in the UK.

Capital Gains Tax

Capital Gains Tax (CGT) in Scotland applies to the profit made from selling or disposing of assets such as property, shares, or business assets. Individuals have an annual tax-free allowance, with gains above this threshold taxed at varying rates depending on income and asset type. We can provide legal advice to help ensure compliance and effective tax planning to minimize CGT liabilities.

Seeking Legal Support for Confirmation After Tax

Remember, the confirmation process is required before any money or assets belonging to the deceased person can be released. Applying for confirmation in Scotland is fairly straightforward and is a process the Bereavement team at Jones Whyte are able to help you with.

Contact us today to see how we can help. Call us on 0800 292 2038 or complete the form above.

Other services

At Jones Whyte, we provide many other estate planning services, as well as help with the confirmation process.

Contact Jones Whyte today about:

Our experienced and friendly Bereavement team will be able to help you with all aspects of the executry process.