Trusts may be a useful way to pass on wealth, but research suggests it’s an option some people are dismissing. You can place a variety of assets in a trust, from investment to property, for the benefit of another person, known as the “beneficiary”. The trust is then managed by one or more trustees according to the instructions you’ve set…
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More people in England and Wales are celebrating their 100th birthday. It could have implications for your financial plan and creating an income in retirement. According to a release from the Office for National Statistics (ONS), on Census Day in 2021, there were 13,924 centenarians living in England and Wales. The oldest person to complete the census…
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Every year thousands of people retire. It’s a milestone that you might be looking forward to in 2024 with excitement. It’s also a life event that you may feel nervous about. Spending some time preparing for the next chapter could mean you feel more confident about stepping away from work. If you’re hoping to retire next…
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Regular financial reviews may help keep you on track to meet your goals and give you confidence in the steps you’re taking. As well as reviewing your assets, you might also want to make changes to your plan. Last month, you read about why you shouldn’t skip your financial reviews and how they could help you…
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On 22 November 2023, chancellor Jeremy Hunt delivered the Autumn Statement against a backdrop of a cost of living crisis and a looming general election. It’s been a challenging year with inflation dominating headlines. While inflation has fallen, it’s still higher than the Bank of England’s 2% target at 4.6% in the 12 months to October 2023. Ahead of his…
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Opening up about your finances can be difficult. Yet, talking about money could improve your financial security and boost your wellbeing, whether this is talking to your Financial Planner, friends, or your partner. Every year, the Money and Pension Service (MaPS) hosts Talk Money Week, an initiative encouraging more people to start financial conversations. This year, it takes place between…
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As the nights start drawing in, it’s the perfect time to refresh your bookshelf with some of the biggest publications of the year. The 2023 Booker Prize shortlist has been unveiled and includes six fantastic novels. The Booker Prize launched in 1969 and many of the books that have won the award have gone on to…
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Creating a financial plan is just the first step to reaching your goals. While you may have carefully set out what you need to do, regular financial reviews are essential. It’s often advised that you review your financial plan once a year or following major life events. Over the next few months, you can read about why reviews are a…
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Government changes to the taxation of pensions may mean you could save far more tax-efficiently for retirement. If a potential tax bill influenced your current retirement date, it might be worth reviewing your plan. Previously, the Lifetime Allowance (LTA) affected the total pension benefits you could build up before facing a possible tax charge. In 2022/23, the LTA was £1,073,100.
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People often think of their financial plan as a way to grow their wealth and provide financial security. You might consider areas like your pension or financial protection to be core parts of your financial plan. Yet, while they’re important, your happiness is essential too. Financial planning is about helping you reach your financial goals, but it goes further than…
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