This year’s Budget feels notable as much for what didn’t happen as for what did. Pre-Budget speculation hinted at radical changes, such as capping or removing pension tax-free cash, but I am happy to report that this, and many other rumours didn’t materialise. Instead, the Chancellor signalled a different direction of travel, and some would say a more obvious broken…
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Are Pensions Forming Part of IHT in 2027? A major shift is coming. From 6 April 2027, unused pension funds and death benefits will, in most cases, fall within the scope of Inheritance Tax (IHT). This change ends a decades-long tax advantage where pension pots largely escaped the IHT net, transforming pensions from a discreet estate-planning tool into a core…
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As a valued client of Herbert Scott, you already understand the importance of proactive, long-term financial planning. But even with a robust plan in place, it’s valuable to pause and reflect on how you talk about money – not just with your adviser, but within your family and wider circle. That’s the thinking behind Talk Money Week, an annual UK…
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At Herbert Scott, we are proud of how our firm has evolved – not only in size, but in the strength, expertise and dedication of our people. To ensure we continue to deliver the clarity, independence, and trust our clients value, I have refined our management structure to reflect both our current position and our future direction.At his…
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A 19-Year Shortfall Recent data from the Pensions Policy Institute reveals a sobering truth: UK women need to work an extra 19 years on average to retire with the same pension savings as men. This disparity, often referred to as the gender pension gap, is even more severe than the gender pay gap and its impact lasts far beyond a working…
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The importance of remaining calm is often something that’s talked about when discussing investment market volatility. But there are other factors outside of your control that might lead to emotional decision-making, including uncertainty about the upcoming Autumn Budget. Chancellor Rachel Reeves is expected to deliver an Autumn Budget at the end of October. Despite being weeks away, there’s already speculation…
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It’s been a decade since Pension Freedoms legislation gave retirees more choice. Yet rather than relishing the freedom the changes have provided, research suggests workers are approaching retirement unsure about the decisions they need to make. Data published by PensionsAge in June 2025 suggests that only 47% of UK savers are aware of their options in retirement.
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While many people don’t rely on care later in life, planning for the potential cost of it could help you feel confident about the future and mean you have more options should you need support. According to a December 2021 report from The Health Foundation, people are increasingly living healthier and more independent lives in their…
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After many years without hosting work experience students, Herbert Scott was delighted to welcome two more enthusiastic individuals into the firm this summer. It’s been a rewarding opportunity to support young people in developing life skills and exploring potential career paths in financial services. The students, Joe and Leily, shared reflections on their time with us. Joe, currently studying Business…
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This summer, the Herbert Scott team swapped spreadsheets for paintbrushes and headed to Pinot & Picasso for a creative morning of art and laughter. We met bright and early at 9am, ready to channel our inner artists with a guided session painting the stunning Sunset in Santorini. Some of us followed the instructor’s lead step-by-step, while others boldly painted ahead—embracing…
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