HMRC used to offer an Inheritance Tax and Probate Helpline. From 02 October 2023, the dedicated helpline is closed. This is all part of HMRC and HM Courts and Tribunals Service (HMCTS) working together with the intention of improving the service for probate and Inheritance Tax customers.

There are now two numbers to contact:

– For probate queries, contact HMCTS – telephone 0300 303 0648 (or E-Mail contactprobate@justice.gov.uk)
– For Inheritance Tax queries, contact HMRC – telephone 0300 123 1072 (or use HMRC’s online ‘assistant’ but NOT if an Inheritance Tax account (IHT400) that has already been sent)

HMRC advise that having two probate lines (one by HMRC and one by HMCTS) could confuse callers and the number of transfers between the two departments was significant. However, if the wrong line is called, there is the assurance that they will do their best to assist.

Best use the above contact details and note that probate and Inheritance Tax are now separate.