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Trust planning in London

A trust lets trustees manage assets for beneficiaries under defined terms. It can be useful for a specific family need, but is not automatically appropriate or tax-efficient. Ask about trustee duties, access to assets, registration, ongoing administration and possible tax charges before proceeding.

Property, international connections and people who depend on you

London estate planning can involve a main home, investment property, pensions and business assets held in different ways. Start with ownership and beneficiary information rather than assuming all assets pass under a will. A coordinated review can identify issues that one document alone would miss.

If you or your beneficiaries have assets or connections outside England and Wales, say so at the outset. Overseas property, residence and existing foreign wills can require specialist advice in more than one jurisdiction. Do not assume an English will or LPA is automatically effective everywhere.

Trust discussions should begin with a specific objective: supporting someone vulnerable, managing an inheritance for younger beneficiaries or balancing family needs. Trustees take on real responsibilities, and trusts can create tax and reporting obligations. Compare the options and costs before deciding.

Questions to discuss before deciding

• What specific beneficiary need would the trust address?
• Who would manage it and understand their duties?
• What are the initial, ongoing and potential tax costs?

Prepare for your consultation

• UK and overseas assets, with ownership and residence details
• Pension nominations, insurance policies and existing wills
• Any beneficiaries needing extra support or managed inheritances
• Executors and attorneys able to act when needed

Our process

• Consultation to understand your objectives
• Analysis of the most suitable trust structure
• Drafting of trust documentation
• Guidance on trustee selection and duties
• Asset transfer into trust
• Ongoing trust administration support

What is included?

• Consideration of asset ownership and beneficiary needs
• Control over when and how beneficiaries receive assets
• Explanation of trust tax treatment and possible charges
• Protection for vulnerable beneficiaries
• Coordination with your will and estate administration
• Flexibility in wealth distribution

See indicative guide prices; ask for a quote confirming scope and separate third-party charges.

More estate planning guidance for London

Speak to Inherita

Our published local office: 2 York House, Langston Road, Loughton, Essex, IG10 3TQ. Call to arrange an appointment. Telephone and video consultations are available.

Call 020 8798 0270 · Ask about your estate plan · Request a free 45-minute consultation

Nearby service areas

• Will writing and estate planning in Essex
• Will writing and estate planning in Loughton
• Will writing and estate planning in Chigwell
• Will writing and estate planning in Buckhurst Hill

Official guidance

• GOV.UK: making a will
• GOV.UK: lasting powers of attorney
• GOV.UK: inheritance tax thresholds and allowances
• GOV.UK: trusts and taxes
• GOV.UK: applying for probate
• GOV.UK: inheritance when someone dies without a will

General information for England and Wales, not personalised legal or tax advice. Prepared by Inherita; content reviewed 7 October 2026.

Frequently asked questions

Can I arrange an estate-planning consultation in London remotely?

Yes. Inherita offers telephone and video consultations for London clients. Our published local office is in Loughton, Essex; we do not list a branch in every London borough.

Does making a will remove inheritance tax on a London property?

No. Inheritance tax depends on the estate, available allowances, beneficiaries and other circumstances. A will records your wishes and may form part of planning, but does not itself make the estate tax-free.

Can one will cover property in more than one country?

Sometimes, but cross-border estates need careful advice. Different countries may have different succession, tax and document requirements. Explain overseas assets and any existing foreign wills before changing your plan.

Does a family trust always reduce inheritance tax?

No. Trusts are taxed differently according to their type and circumstances, and some create entry, periodic or exit charges. GOV.UK explains the main trust types and taxes. Ask for advice on the proposed arrangement rather than assuming a saving.

What is a trust?

A trust is a legal arrangement where trustees manage assets for beneficiaries. Different trusts have different purposes, duties and tax treatment. A trust does not automatically provide tax savings or protection from claims.

What types of trusts are available?

Common types include discretionary trusts, life interest trusts, bare trusts, and protective trusts. The right choice depends on your circumstances.

Who can be a trustee?

Any adult of sound mind can be a trustee. Many people choose family members, friends, or professional trustees for complex estates.

Are trusts only for wealthy families?

No. Trusts are valuable for anyone wanting to protect assets, provide for children, or manage inheritance for vulnerable relatives.