IHTM30353 | Rates of interest: the higher and lower rates before 16 December 1986

From HM Revenue & Customs · Inheritance Tax Manual

In the period prior to 16 December 1986 there were two rates of interest:

The lower interest rate (the death rate), was appropriate for:

  • transfers on death

  • potentially exempt transfers (failed PETs ())

  • tax charged under the gifts with reservation () provisions (treated either as part of the transfer on death or as potentially exempt transfers (failed PETs))

  • the Additional Charges () on an immediately chargeable transfer when the transferor dies within seven years of the transfer

  • any tax for which, by virtue of , only a political party was liable

  • any additional tax payable when the settlor dies after an occasion of charge under

  • tax repayable under

The higher rate was charged in any other case. The higher rate was expressly applied by to tax repayable on a claim under (which concerns Orders under Inheritance (PFD) Act 1975) and (voidable transfers ()). The higher rate was also expressly applied, by , to tax charged by virtue of (legitim ()).

Seek advice from Technical if you need details of these statutory rates.