Where to Find Your Inheritance Tax Reference Number: A Complete Guide for UK Estates
- Belgravia Capital
- 5 days ago
- 4 min read
Dealing with the estate of a loved one is emotionally draining - and the paperwork doesn’t make it any easier.
If you’ve recently become responsible for handling an inheritance tax (IHT) payment, one of the first things you’ll be asked for is the Inheritance Tax reference number.
But what is it? Why do you need it? And, most importantly, where do you find it?
At Belgravia Capital Wealth Management, we’ve helped countless families manage this process.
In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about finding, using, and understanding your IHT reference number in 2025.
What Is an Inheritance Tax Reference Number?
The Inheritance Tax reference number is a unique 13-character code issued by HMRC. It links your IHT account to the estate you’re administering and is essential when:
Paying inheritance tax from the deceased’s bank account
Requesting probate
Contacting HMRC about IHT matters
Making additional payments or corrections
Without it, HMRC cannot properly allocate payments or match correspondence with the right estate.
What Does the Reference Number Look Like?
Your reference number will usually look something like this:
ABC1234567890
It may appear with or without spaces or dashes, and can be issued either online or in writing, depending on how you apply.
Where to Find the Inheritance Tax Reference Number
If You Applied Online (Form IHT422)
If you requested the reference number through HMRC’s online system, you should receive it:
Immediately on screen (copy it down!)
By post within 15 working days
The letter is titled “Your Inheritance Tax reference number” and comes from HMRC, addressed to the person applying on behalf of the estate.
Tip: Check the email or printout you received at the end of the online process, it often contains the number.
If You Applied by Post (Form IHT422 or IHT400)
If you used a paper version of the IHT422 or IHT400, your reference number will be posted to you after HMRC processes the application.
Expect the letter to arrive within:
3 weeks of application (often faster)
Look for a brown HMRC envelope with a reference to the deceased’s name and the title “IHT Reference”
If a Solicitor or Adviser Applied for You
If your solicitor, probate specialist, or financial adviser completed the inheritance tax forms, ask them directly for the reference number.
They will have received it either electronically or by post and should include it on all correspondence or payment instructions they send to you.
What If You Can’t Find the IHT Reference Number?
If you’ve lost or never received your IHT reference number, don’t panic. You have several options:
Option 1: Check Your Correspondence
Go through letters, emails, or documents sent by HMRC
Look for a 15-digit number starting with “8” or “5”
Option 2: Contact HMRC
You can request your reference number from HMRC directly, but only if you are authorised to deal with the estate.
Contact details:
HMRC IHT Helpline: 0300 123 1072
Open Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm
You’ll need the deceased’s full name, National Insurance number, and date of death
Option 3: Reapply for a Reference Number
If you’re not far into the process, you can reapply using Form IHT422 or the online version.
When Do You Need the Inheritance Tax Reference Number?
You’ll need the reference number before you pay any inheritance tax, and also before applying for probate.
Here’s when to use it:
Paying Inheritance Tax Using the Reference Number
Once you have your 15-digit IHT reference, you can pay tax either:
Directly from the deceased’s bank or building society
From a personal or solicitor’s account
Make sure to include the reference number in the payment details (usually in the reference or notes field). This ensures the payment is correctly allocated by HMRC.
Tip: If you’re paying by BACS or CHAPS, check the correct bank details and payment instructions on the HMRC website to avoid delays.
Who Can Request the IHT Reference Number?
Typically, the reference number must be requested by someone who is:
An executor or administrator of the estate
A solicitor or professional adviser acting on behalf of the estate
A trustee if the estate involves a trust
You’ll need to provide:
The deceased’s full name
Their date of death
Their National Insurance number
Your own contact details
What If Multiple Executors Are Involved?
Only one person needs to request the IHT reference number on behalf of all executors. HMRC will issue it in that individual’s name, but it can be used by the entire executor team during probate and tax settlement.
Important Deadlines: Don’t Delay
Inheritance tax must be paid by the end of the sixth month after the person died
If not paid on time, interest starts accruing
HMRC won’t issue a grant of probate until they receive IHT or confirm it’s not due
This makes getting your reference number early a top priority.
How Belgravia Capital Wealth Management Can Help with IHT Planning and Administration
Handling inheritance tax paperwork while grieving a loss is never easy. That’s why we offer compassionate, professional guidance to help families:
Apply for an inheritance tax reference number
Calculate the tax due
Complete IHT400 and IHT421 forms
Navigate payment and probate efficiently
Plan ahead to reduce inheritance tax in future generations
Whether you’re administering an estate now or preparing for the future, we’re here to take the burden off your shoulders.
Conclusion: Where to Find Your Inheritance Tax Reference Number
The inheritance tax reference number is your key to settling an estate and getting probate - without it, the process slows down or grinds to a halt.
You’ll receive it after applying via HMRC, either online or by post, and it must be quoted in all future payments or correspondence.
If you haven’t received it, check your letters, emails, or contact HMRC directly.
And if you need expert help navigating IHT and estate administration, we’re ready to support you.
📩 Contact Belgravia Capital Wealth Management at
for personal, professional guidance on inheritance tax planning and probate support.
