Changes to APR and BPR: Why Northern Ireland Businesses Must Act Early
From April 2026, proposed changes to Agricultural Property Relief (APR) and Business Property Relief (BPR) could have a significant and disproportionate impact on Northern Ireland farms and family-owned businesses.
These reliefs have long played a vital role in protecting businesses and land from large inheritance tax (IHT) liabilities. Any reduction or restriction to their availability could materially change how assets are passed between generations — particularly in Northern Ireland, where family ownership structures are common and businesses are often asset-rich but cash-poor.
Why APR and BPR Matter
APR and BPR are key inheritance tax reliefs that can reduce the value of qualifying agricultural or business assets for IHT purposes — in many cases by up to 100%.
They are often critical for:
Succession planning within farming and family-run businesses
Passing land or business assets between generations
Protecting family businesses from forced sales to fund IHT liabilities
Preserving long-term continuity and stability
Without these reliefs, the tax bill on death or transfer of ownership could be substantial.
The Risk of Doing Nothing
If APR and BPR are reduced, restricted, or redefined from April 2026, businesses that have not reviewed their structures may face:
Higher inheritance tax exposure
Limited options to mitigate tax at a later stage
Increased pressure on cashflow or asset sales
Difficult conversations during already challenging family transitions
Estate and succession planning is rarely effective when left until the last minute. Once rules change, opportunities may be lost.
Why Northern Ireland Businesses Are Particularly Exposed
Northern Ireland has a high concentration of:
Family-owned farms
Multi-generational trading businesses
Land-based enterprises
In many cases, business value is tied up in land or assets rather than readily available cash — making advance planning essential to avoid unintended consequences.
How Exchange Accountants Can Help
At Exchange Accountants, we work closely with business owners and families to help them prepare well in advance of legislative change.
Our support includes:
Reviewing ownership and business structures
Assessing inheritance tax exposure
Advising on succession and estate planning strategies
Working alongside legal and other professional advisers where required
Helping protect businesses for the long term, not just the next generation
Every business and family is different, which is why tailored advice is so important.
Act Early for Peace of Mind
If your business, farm or land forms part of your estate planning, early advice is essential. Taking time now to review your position gives you more options — and far greater certainty — as April 2026 approaches.
📞 028 9263 4135
📧 info@exchangeaccountants.com
🌐 www.exchangeaccountants.com
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