Spring Statement 2026: What It Means for Bereaved Families
What did the Spring Statement 2026 announce for bereaved families?
The Spring Statement 2026, delivered on 3rd March 2026, focused primarily on economic forecasts and growth projections. Unlike Autumn Budgets, Spring Statements rarely include major tax or policy changes. The 2026 statement contained no significant changes to Inheritance Tax, probate fees, or bereavement benefits. Existing rules for estate administration continue to apply.
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What Was Announced
The Chancellor's Spring Statement 2026 was delivered on 3rd March 2026. Here's what it means for people dealing with bereavement and estate administration:
Summary: No Changes for Bereaved Families
The Spring Statement 2026 contained no policy changes affecting estate administration. All existing rules continue to apply:
- Inheritance Tax: The nil-rate band remains at £325,000 and the residence nil-rate band at £175,000. No changes to IHT rates, thresholds, or reliefs were announced. See our complete IHT guide for current rules.
- Capital Gains Tax: CGT rates and allowances affecting estates remain unchanged from the 2025 Autumn Budget. Executors should continue using existing rates when disposing of estate assets. Learn more in our CGT guide.
- Bereavement Support Payment: No changes were announced to Bereavement Support Payment rates or eligibility. The higher rate remains at £3,500 (lump sum) plus £350 per month, and the standard rate at £2,500 (lump sum) plus £100 per month.
- Probate and Administration: Probate application fees remain at £273 for estates over £5,000. No changes to court fees or probate processes were announced.
- Property and Housing: No changes to Stamp Duty or Capital Gains Tax on inherited property were announced. Existing rules for estate administration of property continue to apply.
Spring Statements typically focus on economic forecasts rather than policy changes. Major tax announcements are usually reserved for Autumn Budgets.
What This Means for You
Spring Statements are typically less significant than Autumn Budgets, but they can still include important changes. Here's how to understand what's been announced:
If You're Currently Administering an Estate
Most tax changes announced in March take effect from the next tax year (starting 6th April 2026). This means:
- Estates where the person died before 6th April 2026 are generally unaffected by new rules
- You have time to review the changes and seek advice before they take effect
- Consider whether to accelerate or delay asset disposals depending on the changes
If You're Planning Your Own Estate
Spring Statement announcements can affect estate planning strategies:
- Review your will and existing estate planning arrangements with a solicitor
- Consider whether gifts or trust arrangements need updating
- Check if pension, property, or business relief rules have changed
If You've Recently Been Bereaved
Focus on the immediate practical tasks first:
- Tax changes rarely affect deaths that have already occurred
- You can claim the Bereavement Support Payment regardless of Budget changes
- Seek advice if the estate is complex or involves significant assets
Should You Take Action?
The Spring Statement is primarily an economic update. Major tax changes are more common in Autumn Budgets. However, you should consider taking action if:
Significant IHT changes were announced
Consult a solicitor or tax adviser before 6th April if you're mid-estate administration and the changes affect your planning.
CGT rules affecting estates changed
Review whether to dispose of assets before or after 6th April depending on the new rates or allowances.
You're approaching the April 5th tax deadline
Use our April 5th Executor Checklist to ensure you meet all tax year-end deadlines.
⚠️ Don't Rush Important Decisions
Most Spring Statement changes take effect from 6th April, giving you time to plan. Avoid making hasty decisions without professional advice, especially for complex estates or significant assets.
Get Professional Advice
Spring Statements can have complex implications for estate administration. Consider consulting:
Specialist Probate Solicitors
Find a solicitor who specialises in estate administration through:
- Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners (STEP) - for complex estates
- Law Society's Find a Solicitor tool - search for "probate" or "wills and estates"
Tax Advisers and Accountants
For complex tax implications, speak to:
HMRC Bereavement Helpline
For straightforward tax queries about a deceased person's affairs:
Phone: 0300 123 1072
Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm
Sources and Further Reading
- HM Treasury - Official Spring Statement 2026 documents
- GOV.UK: Inheritance Tax - Official guidance on IHT rules and rates
- GOV.UK: Capital Gains Tax - Guidance on CGT and estates
- Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners (STEP) - Professional body for estate planning specialists
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