Before we look at ways of structuring asset ownership to minimise inheritance tax, it is essential to address one common misconception. People will often talk about tax evasion and tax avoidance (management) simultaneously. Tax evasion is an illegal method of minimising your tax liability, while tax avoidance is a legal method of reducing your potential […]
As we enter 2024, UK inflation is trending downwards, with the latest figure for November coming in at 3.9%. It’s easy to forget that this time last year, UK inflation stood at more than 10%, having hit a 41-year high of 11.1% in October 2022. While still some distance from the Bank of England’s target […]
Recently, we have seen an element of control given back to private pension fund holders and more flexibility in how they invest and receive their money in retirement. Many people perceive these long-term choices as fairly stark; they either move into drawdown, with an element of risk or acquire an annuity to provide an income […]
Workplace pensions are mandatory for UK employers that employ at least one person. Also known as auto-enrolment, there are certain legal obligations you need to meet, from minimum contributions to sign-up timeframes and more. This article will tell you all you need to know about setting up a workplace pension, as well as advice on […]
In recent years we have seen many changes concerning pension regulations which may impact your long-term income. The subject of pension consolidation is interesting, with several pros and cons depending on your scenario. Whether you decide to increase contributions, consolidate part or all of your pensions or make any other changes, it is essential to […]
As they say, there are only two certainties in life, taxes and death – when it comes to inheritance tax, tax on death. However, there are legitimate ways to mitigate potential inheritance tax charges in the future, maximising assets left to your family and friends while minimising your tax liability. Before we look at ways […]
Since introducing pension freedoms legislation in April 2015, we have seen significant changes across the UK pension sector. These include a new state pension scheme, flexible access to defined contribution pension assets, and changes to the state pension age. However, the UK government recently introduced further changes that will impact short, medium and long-term returns. […]
This content is for information and inspiration purposes only. It should not be taken as financial or investment advice. To receive personalised, regulated financial advice regarding your affairs please consult an independent financial adviser. The lifetime allowance (LTA) was, until recently, a “cap” on the total value that you could hold in your pensions without […]
This content is for information and inspiration purposes only. It should not be taken as financial or investment advice. To receive personalised, regulated financial advice regarding your affairs please consult an independent financial adviser. Is Britain poised to enter a “golden era” of retirement, or have these days already passed? With people living longer compared […]
This content is for information and inspiration purposes only. It should not be taken as financial or investment advice. To receive personalised, regulated financial advice regarding your affairs please consult an independent financial adviser. Early retirement is a deeply-held dream for many people. Yet in 2023, the rising cost of living has brought that ambition […]