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AJ Bell (formerly AJ Bell Youinvest) is one of the UK's leading investment platforms, popular with DIY investors who want control over their pension investments. When an AJ Bell SIPP holder dies, the fund value can be passed to a nominated beneficiary efficiently. AJ Bell SIPP funds fall outside the estate and do not normally require probate.
In most cases, no. AJ Bell SIPPs are held within a discretionary trust structure. The trustees can pay the SIPP directly to the nominated beneficiary without a Grant of Probate, because the funds fall outside the estate.
If there is no nomination and AJ Bell cannot identify a suitable beneficiary, the SIPP may be paid to the estate. In that case, probate may be required.
The death benefit is the full value of the SIPP at the date of death, including all investments held within it. AJ Bell offers beneficiaries two main options:
Inherited drawdown is particularly valuable for beneficiaries who want to keep the funds invested and benefit from continued tax-free growth (for pre-75 deaths). AJ Bell will explain both options clearly to the beneficiary.
AJ Bell SIPP holders can register an expression of wishes (nomination of beneficiary) through their online account. The trustees will give this nomination significant weight but retain discretion — keeping the fund outside the estate for IHT purposes.
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AJ Bell allows SIPP holders to name multiple beneficiaries with percentage splits. The nomination should be reviewed and updated after any significant life event.
For the latest guidance, see GOV.UK on tax on pension death benefits.
Currently, AJ Bell SIPP funds fall outside the estate and are not subject to IHT. From 6 April 2027, proposed changes will bring unspent SIPP funds within the scope of inheritance tax. This is significant for AJ Bell customers who have built substantial SIPP pots.
Read our guide to pensions and inheritance tax from April 2027.
Without a nomination, AJ Bell trustees will exercise discretion and typically pay to the surviving spouse or civil partner. If no suitable beneficiary is found, the SIPP may be paid to the estate, making it subject to probate.
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