Episode overview
Agriculture specialist Ryan Lincoln joins James to talk about the recently announced changes to Inheritance Tax for farms and businesses. With under a year to go until implementation, Ryan covers what is changing, what options are available and how some of his farming clients are dealing with these challenges.
Episode summary
In this episode, James Shipp is joined by agricultural specialist Ryan Lincoln to discuss the recently announced changes to inheritance tax affecting farms and family-owned businesses. The conversation focuses on what the changes mean for farming businesses, the potential impact on succession planning, and why many farm owners are reviewing their affairs ahead of the new rules coming into effect. Ryan explains the areas of uncertainty and concern within the agricultural sector, as well as the practical implications for families looking to pass businesses and farmland on to the next generation.
With less than a year until implementation, the episode explores the options available to farmers and business owners who may be affected. Ryan shares insights into how some of his farming clients are responding to the proposed changes, the planning opportunities that may exist, and the importance of seeking professional advice early. The discussion highlights the need for proactive succession and tax planning, helping listeners understand the steps they can take now to protect family wealth, preserve business continuity and prepare for an evolving inheritance tax landscape.
Key takeaways
Recent inheritance tax changes could have significant implications for farms and family-owned businesses.
Farming families should review their succession and estate planning strategies well before the new rules take effect.
The changes may affect how agricultural assets and business interests are passed to future generations.
Early planning can provide more flexibility and potentially create opportunities to mitigate future tax liabilities.
Understanding the detail behind the proposed changes is essential before making major decisions.
Different farms and family situations will require tailored solutions rather than a one-size-fits-all approach.
Professional advice can help identify planning opportunities and avoid unintended consequences.
Succession planning should involve both the family and the business to ensure long-term continuity.
Delaying action may reduce the options available as implementation approaches.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction
01:15 What changes are being made to Inheritance Tax for farms?
04:30 Why farmers are concerned about the new rules
07:45 Agricultural Property Relief and Business Property Relief explained
11:20 Who is likely to be most affected?
14:30 Common misconceptions around farm succession planning
17:15 What planning options are available?
20:10 Real-life discussions with farming clients
23:00 Balancing family, business and tax considerations
26:00 What should farmers be doing now?
28:30 Key takeaways and final thoughts
Guest bio
Ryan Lincoln is a Partner at Lovewell Blake, based in the firm's Halesworth Office. He provides accountancy and taxation advice to a diverse range of clients, including companies, unincorporated businesses and private individuals. Ryan has developed particular expertise in the agricultural sector, where he works closely with farming businesses, family-owned enterprises and start-ups, helping them navigate financial, tax and succession planning challenges.

