When Only Fools and Horses star Roger Lloyd-Pack (“Trigger”) died last year without making a will, he left his family facing an inheritance tax bill that could so easily have been avoided.

Roger’s estate, reportedly worth a total of £1,464,636, now has to be divided between his widow, Jehane Markham, and his four children under the rules of intestacy (which apply when someone dies without leaving a valid will).  His widow will receive all his personal chattels, or belongings, a legacy of £250,000 and half the remaining estate.  Any money inherited by a spouse is not liable for inheritance tax, but this doesn’t apply to the other half of the estate which will be divided between the children.  Anything that the children inherit above the current nil rate band of £325,000 will be taxed at 40% - which in this case (depending on the value of his belongings) could mean a tax bill of over £110,000!

This situation could so easily have been avoided if a professional will had been drawn up by specialist solicitors.  Everything could have been left to Jehane for the remainder of her lifetime, or the children could have received an amount below the inheritance tax threshold.  This is a classic case of why it is so important to take proper advice and have an up to date will in place.  As Del Boy would say – ‘Don’t be a Plonker - You know it makes sense!’

If you have any questions or concerns about making a will then let me know at timesquestions@anvoner.co.uk and I will do my best to put your mind at rest.