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News updates

Read the latest updates from the world of pensions and see how they affect you as a member of the Scheme.

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Read the latest news about the Fund and your pension below.

Inheritance Tax changes: latest update

Aug 27, 2026
The Government has published more information about planned changes to Inheritance Tax (IHT) and pensions. The changes are due to take effect from 6 April 2027.

Some details are still being finalised, but the latest updates offer more information about how the changes could affect pension savings and death benefits.

A reminder of what's changing
At the moment, pension benefits are not usually included as part of a person's estate for Inheritance Tax (IHT) purposes.

From 6 April 2027, most unused pension savings and some death benefits will be included when calculating the value of an estate after someone dies. 

What's new since our last update?
Since our last update, the Government has confirmed the legislation for these changes and shared more information about how they are expected to work in practice.

For example, the latest information confirms that unused AVC savings, such as BRASS and AVC Extra, will be included in the changes. It also confirms that qualifying death in service benefits and dependant’s pensions will not be included.

What could this mean for you?
Whether the changes affect you will depend on your individual circumstances. Based on the latest guidance, IHT may apply to:
  • unused defined contribution (DC) pension savings, such as IWDC
  • unused AVC savings, including BRASS and AVC Extra 
  • some lump sum death benefits paid after a member's death
Based on the information published so far, IHT will not apply to: 
  • qualifying death in service benefits
  • dependant's pensions paid to eligible dependants 
Keep your nominations up to date
It's important to make sure your nominations are up to date.

Your nominations help the Trustee understand who you’d like to receive any lump sum death benefits that may be paid when you die.

Your nominations do not directly affect Inheritance Tax. But keeping them up to date helps make sure your wishes can be taken into account when decisions are made.

You can make, check or change your nominations at any time by logging in to your myFund account.

We'll continue to keep you informed
The Government is expected to share more information about the IHT changes before they come into force from April 2027.

We’ll continue to keep an eye on developments and share updates with you as more information becomes available.