IHTM46010 | Basic definitions: introduction

Although RNRB applies in principle where a person’s estate includes their home and that home is left to their children or other direct descendants, the RNRB legislation (IHTA84/S8D to S8M) sets out the qualifying criteria in detail. It introduces a number of terms with specific meanings which, among other things, determine what qualifies as a ‘home’ (IHTM46011), who qualifies as a ‘direct descendant’ (IHTM46034), and whether the ‘home’ is part of a person’s estate (IHTM46012). These are explained on the following pages.

There are further terms which apply to situations where RNRB is being transferred (IHTM46040) between the estates of spouses or civil partners, or where the downsizing provisions (IHTM46050) apply. These terms are set out in the relevant parts of the Manual.