The new High Value Council Tax Surcharge, announced in the November 2025 Budget, could leave some families with an additional tax bill to settle from an estate under proposals from the government. The government published its consultation on 19 May 2026, setting out some of the potential structure for how the so-called ‘mansion tax’ would …
A new government-backed report has issued a stark warning about the future of retirement in the UK, highlighting a growing gap between what people are saving and what they are likely to need later in life. According to the Pensions Commission’s interim report, around 15 million people in the UK are currently under-saving for retirement, …
The rules around care can feel confusing, and the costs can vary depending on the type of support needed. The good news is that there are options and understanding them early can help you make informed choices in your own time. For some families, this might mean checking what support may be available. For others, …
Good mental health is influenced by many factors, and financial wellbeing is an important part of that picture. While financial advice is not a substitute for mental health support, feeling informed and empowered about your finances can help reduce one source of stress and support overall wellbeing. This Mental Health Awareness Week, we encourage open …
The Pension Schemes Bill received Royal Assent on 29 April and became the Pension Schemes Act, marking the most significant overhaul of pensions in a decade. How will this affect you and your family? The Act will bring about significant reforms to the UK pensions system, benefitting workers by up to £29,000 by the time …
The “baby-boomer” generation (62 to 80 years of age) is sitting on £3.84 trillion in UK property wealth according to research by estate agent Savills. Around £2.92 trillion is held in main family homes with the rest in buy-to-let property investments and other residential properties such as second homes. For context, the annual gross domestic …
The new tax year is here, and upcoming pension changes mean that it’s now a good time to review your retirement plans. 1. Age to access your pension is rising From April 2028, the earliest age most people can start taking money from their private pension will rise from 55 to 57. If you were …
Inheritance Tax (IHT) continues to make headlines, and for good reason. According to the latest forecasts, the amount collected by the government is expected to reach a record £8.7 billion in the 2025–26 tax year. As property values and investment portfolios grow, more families are finding themselves within the scope of IHT. Increasingly, this is …
Money is one of the most common sources of stress in relationships and one of the least talked about. In fact, many couples find it easier to discuss almost anything except their finances. Yet open, honest conversations about money don’t weaken relationships. Done well, they can strengthen trust, reduce anxiety, and create a shared sense …
Recent IHT changes affect not only farms but also many family-owned trading businesses. Reviewing your estate now can help protect your assets and ensure relief is claimed where available. New thresholds for relief The Government has adapted plans to impose inheritance tax (IHT) on farms worth more than £1 million. When the new rules come …
