This guidance note explains an ‘Eversden scheme’; an inheritance tax (IHT) planning scheme which was popular in the 1990s and early 2000s to remove the value of the main residence from the individual’s estate. The aim was to allow the property owner to remain living in the property without getting caught by the gift with reservation (GWR) provisions. Subsequent legislation means that no new Eversden schemes can be undertaken with the original tax benefits.

See the Gifts with reservation ― overview guidance note.

Although the schemes are no longer recommended, tax practitioners will still encounter arrangements which were set up in the past. The guidance note provides background information on how the schemes worked and what their current status is.

For other historic IHT planning schemes see the Historical schemes: Ingram and reversionary lease schemes and Historical IHT schemes ― home loan and family debt schemes guidance notes.