When to pay inheritance tax

slb2020

The MSE guide to probate at https://www.moneysavingexpert.com/family/guide-to-probate/ states:
"Where the estimated value of the estate is ABOVE the IHT threshold (£325,000) ... you'll need to fill in an IHT400 form and send it to HMRC. Be sure to then wait 20 working days before applying for probate"

and then:
"If there is tax to pay, you'll need to settle this before the grant is issued to you."

But it does not say exactly when the inheritance tax should be paid. Should I wait until HMRC agree or dispute my calculation of the due tax? Indeed, will HMRC contact me, or do they remain silent unless they wish to dispute the calculation?

Keep_pedalling

You need to pay it within 6 months of the death if you want to avoid interest charges. That guidance is wrong about when an IHT return needs to be filled in as it is somewhat more complex than that. If the bulk of an estate is going to a spouse then it will be an exempt estate so no return required if over the NRB, if a widow / widowers estate does not exceed £650k and their spouse left everything to them then again no return would be required.

slb2020

In my case there is tax to pay and yes I am aware of the 6 month deadline.

To phrase my question differently: If I want to minimise the length of time taken to grant probate, should I pay IHT at the time of applying for probate, soon after applying or before applying?

Sarahspangles

It’s actually clearer on Gov.uk - you submit IHT400, count to 20 (days) then apply for probate.  IHT400 gives you the option of paying by instalments or authorising direct payment of IHT by an organisation that holds assets that are part of the estate.  You have to have paid at least some of it by the point probate is granted.