News

The government has now responded to the many submissions made in reaction to last October’s consultation on extending inheritance tax (IHT) to pension death benefits. In the Autumn 2024 Budget, the Chancellor announced two major IHT reforms. The first, set … Continue reading →

Just before Parliament broke for its summer recess, the government quietly announced a fresh review of the State Pension Age (SPA),a move that could have long-term implications for family-run businesses. Pension policy has long been a politically sensitive issue. The … Continue reading →

With potential changes to Individual Savings Accounts (ISAs) on the horizon in the Autumn Budget, the Lifetime ISA (LISA) is under critical review, raising questions about its viability for long-term financial planning.   Launched in April 2017 in George Osbourne’s final … Continue reading →

As summer gives way to the final fiscal quarter, attention turns once again to the Autumn Budget and with it, renewed speculation around tax reform. For business owners managing intergenerational wealth and individuals approaching retirement with substantial pension arrangements, this … Continue reading →

State pension policy is back under scrutiny and the future of the triple lock mechanism is looking increasingly uncertain.   Introduced in 2011/12, the triple lock guarantees that annual State pension increases match the highest of:  CPI inflation (September measure)  Average … Continue reading →

New data from HMRC reveals a resurgence in company car ownership driven not by nostalgia, but by strategic tax incentives and the rise of electric vehicles. For business owners and senior executives exploring tax-efficient remuneration, this trend offers both opportunity … Continue reading →

In a notable shift, the UK government is reframing its stance on investment risk, moving away from caution and towards opportunity. At the heart of this change is Chancellor Rachel Reeves, who recently used her Mansion House speech to call … Continue reading →

A new pensions bill has been introduced, which could affect your existing pensions. Pension legislation is almost a staple of parliamentary business. If it is not the Chancellor tweaking the tax rules, it is the Department for Work and Pensions … Continue reading →

In late May, HMRC published a report – based on data collected in summer 2023 and dated January 2024 – that had been held back for months. Why the delay? HMRC are not renowned for prompt action, except for issuing … Continue reading →

New research suggests some retirement costs have fallen, but there is a twist… How much net income do you need each year for a minimum, moderate or comfortable living standard in retirement? Every year since 2019, the Pension and Lifetime … Continue reading →

The Winter Fuel Payment will be returning for most pensioners in England and Wales this winter. Two days before her important Spending Review announcement, Chancellor Rachel Reeves largely completed a slow-motion U-turn on eligibility for the Winter Fuel Payment (WFP). … Continue reading →

New research has highlighted the groups on track for a retirement of scrimping. Several investment institutions publish annual reports on the state of the retirement market. The latest, from Scottish Widows, does not paint a rosy picture. Its National Retirement … Continue reading →

The Government is taking an increasing interest in where pension funds are investing – or not investing. As March’s Spring Statement underlined, Government finances are in a tight and precarious position. Precisely where the line is drawn may become apparent … Continue reading →