Attitudes to Inheritance in Britain

Policy relating to inheritance tax, retirement and pensions, the use of assets to pay for long-term care in later life and the role of assets in welfare more generally can be better informed through an understanding of public attitudes on these topics. This report draws on evidence from the first nationally representative survey of attitudes to inheritance in Britain to contribute to the debate. The main aims of the study were to explore the level of support for the concept of inheritance and how this varies by age, family-type and socio-economic status, as well as how attitudes to inheritance affect financial behaviour. Over 2,000 adults were surveyed. Focus groups of owner-occupiers in different age bands were also interviewed. The findings and implications for policy are fully discussed with over 50 figures and tables presenting the data in an easy-to-read format. Attitudes to inheritance in Britain is essential reading for all those with an interest in issues around inheritance, housing assets and living-standards, including: policy-makers in central and local government; the financial services sector; the housing sector; academics; consumer groups; and the voluntary sector.