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For financial advisers - compiled by our team of experts, qualified in pensions, taxation, trusts and wealth transfer.

Who is liable for tax on bond gains within a trust - decision tree

Last updated 6 April 2026

Key points

To use this decision tree you'll need to know the following information:

  • Whether the Settlor is still alive or deceased.
  • If the Settlor is deceased, the Tax Year in which they died
  • The residency status of the Settlor, the Trustees and the beneficiaries
  • The type of trust applicable - as these special rules do not apply to absolute trusts

This decision tree can be used to highlight where individuals could be seen to be recycling their tax free cash. 

Assumptions and limitations – The decision tree outcomes are based on a number of assumptions and are only illustrative. Aberdeen does not accept any responsibility for any loss caused by reliance on this decision tree. This does not constitute financial or other professional advice from Aberdeen. If you require tax or other professional advice you should consult a suitability qualified professional.  

Is Settlor alive during tax year and UK resident?