Overview
- HMRC data show about 121,000 trusts were registered in 2024–25, up from roughly 115,000 a year earlier.
- The total number of UK trusts now sits in the low‑ to mid‑800,000s, according to analyses of official figures.
- Under the seven‑year rule, assets moved into a trust usually fall outside the estate if the settlor survives seven years.
- Certain transfers into trusts can face an immediate 20% charge when above the £325,000 threshold, with possible 10‑year and exit charges.
- The Treasury projects inheritance tax receipts to reach around £14.5bn by 2030–31, with advisers noting possible rule changes to reliefs that could raise liabilities further.