Royal Crest Estate Planning Service

Targets relief from inheritance tax after just two years by investing in unquoted trading companies expected to qualify for Business Relief — with the investment held in your own name throughout.

3–4.5%

Target return p.a., net of fees (not guaranteed)

£25,000

Minimum investment

2 years

Expected qualifying period for IHT relief

Monthly

Access windows, subject to liquidity

How the service works

Your subscription is used to buy shares in unquoted UK companies that carry on qualifying trades. Once the shares have been held for two years — and are still held at the time of death — they are expected to fall outside your estate for inheritance tax purposes under current Business Relief rules.

You can choose between two portfolio strategies: established asset-backed trading businesses, or trading companies operating in energy and infrastructure. Both aim for steady, conservative returns rather than aggressive growth.

Unlike making gifts or settling assets into trust, the investment stays in your name. If your circumstances change, you can request a withdrawal at the regular access windows.

Relief in two years, not seven

Business Relief can take effect after two years, compared with the seven years typically needed for gifts to leave your estate.

You stay in control

The assets remain yours. Regular access windows mean capital can be requested back if life changes — subject to liquidity.

Conservative, asset-backed strategy

Portfolio companies are selected for tangible asset backing and predictable trading income, prioritising capital preservation.

Key risks

Your capital is at risk and returns are not guaranteed; investments in unquoted companies can fall in value.
Tax rules can change, and relief depends on portfolio companies maintaining their qualifying status and on your individual circumstances. Business Relief is assessed by HMRC on death and cannot be guaranteed in advance.
Unquoted shares are illiquid. Withdrawals depend on available liquidity and may be delayed in periods of high demand.

Charges

Initial charge: 2%
Annual management charge: 0.5% + VAT
Dealing on entry/exit: 1%
Performance fee: None

Full details are set out in the brochure, terms & conditions and key information documents, available from the team on request.

Frequently asked questions

How does this compare with gifting or trusts?

Gifts and most trust transfers usually take seven years to leave your estate, and you give up access to the money. A Business Relief investment targets relief after two years and remains in your name, so you keep control and potential access throughout.

What happens when I die?

Your executors can claim Business Relief as part of the estate administration, provided the shares have been held for at least two years and remain held at death. Beneficiaries can choose to keep the investment (with the relief clock already run) or sell.

Can I take money out?

Yes. Withdrawal requests can be made at the monthly access windows and are met from available liquidity. In normal conditions we aim to return funds promptly, but access is not guaranteed and may be deferred.

Who is this service suitable for?

Typically investors in later life, in poor health, or who have received an inheritance and want faster IHT planning — and who understand and accept the risks of unquoted investments. Always take independent financial advice first.