What is a deed of variation?
Deed of variation in plain terms
A deed of variation is a legal document that lets one or more beneficiaries of an estate agree to redirect their inheritance — to another person, or into a trust — as if the deceased had left it that way in the first place. It's most often used to reduce inheritance tax or to pass assets to someone with a greater need.
The 2-year window
For a deed of variation to be read back into the estate for tax purposes, it must be signed within 2 years of the date of death. After 2 years, that option is gone for good — there's no extension and no appeal, whatever the reason for the delay.
What this page is (and isn't)
This is a plain-language explainer, not legal advice — it does not tell you whether a deed of variation is right for your estate, and it does not draft or file one on your behalf. For estate-specific guidance, consult a solicitor.