Private Pensions Inherited by Beneficiaries Will No Longer Escape IHT
For years, private pensions have offered a tax-efficient way to pass on wealth to loved ones. Currently, any money left in a private pension fund upon death is exempt from Inheritance Tax (IHT). However, this long-standing benefit is set to end. Following announcements by the Chancellor of the Exchequer, from April 2027, private pensions inherited by beneficiaries will no longer escape IHT.
Do you fall into the 60% tax trap?
For many earners in England, Wales or Northern Ireland, the highest Income Tax rate is 45%. However, while 45% is the highest ‘official’ rate, some individuals effectively pay a tax rate of 60% on part of their income. This phenomenon, commonly called the ‘60% tax trap,’ affects those earning over £100,000 and applies to their income between £100,000 and £125,140.
Your Guide to Year End Tax Planning
It’s important to take the time to give your finances a year-end check-up. The 2017/18 tax year ends on 5 April 2018, with the new tax year beginning the following day, on 6 April. These are important dates for financial planning, so it’s important you don’t miss the chance to make the most of valuable tax-efficiencies and allowances.
How to Navigate Capital Gains Tax Allowance
Cuts to the Capital Gains Tax (CGT) exemption mean it is now more critical than ever to arrange your investments tax-efficiently. For the tax year 2024/25, the CGT allowance has been reduced to £3,000, allowing you to make tax-free gains up to this amount. However, any gains above this limit may be subject to CGT.
Planning for a Comfortable and Rewarding Retirement
The five-year countdown to retirement marks a pivotal phase of introspection and detailed preparation. A well- thought-out plan is essential for a comfortable and rewarding retirement, from ensuring financial stability to thinking about healthcare, housing and the lifestyle you hope to enjoy.
Market Update: UK bond yield surge – more than meets the eye
Bond market woes took centre stage again last week. Much of this was driven by the strength of the US economy, as shown by Friday's strong employment data and signs that US consumer services are powering ahead (although, interestingly, wages rises were well-contained). We should bear in mind potential political effects, however, which need to be monitored this year.
Individual Savings Accounts (ISAs)
For UK residents, one of the most effective ways to minimise tax on investment returns is through an Individual Savings Account (ISA). These accounts are a 'tax-efficient wrapper', safeguarding your interest, dividends and capital gains from taxation. Whether your financial goals are short term or long term, ISAs can provide the flexibility and security you need.
Planning and Preparing for Retirement
As we navigate life, reaching our 50s and 60s often brings retirement into sharper focus. This phase heralds a well-earned respite from years of dedication and hard work. For many, retirement is envisioned as the most extended holiday of their lives, offering opportunities to travel, engage more deeply with hobbies or spend cherished moments with family and friends. However, realising this idyllic vision requires thoughtful financial planning.
Income Protection Insurance
When life throws unexpected challenges our way, such as severe illness or injury, the impact can be emotionally and financially overwhelming. While it's never pleasant to contemplate misfortune, it's crucial to consider how you would cope if a severe health issue left you unable to work.
Transfers Exempt From Inheritance Tax
When contemplating estate planning, it's pivotal to grasp the nuances of lifetime transfers and the significant impact of the 7-year rule. Gifts made during one's lifetime are classified either as Potentially Exempt Transfers (PETs) or Chargeable Lifetime Transfers (CLTs), based on the nature of the gift and its recipient, unless the gift falls under an exemption. This distinction is crucial for anyone aiming to navigate the complexities of Inheritance Tax efficiently.
Establishing a Power of Attorney within your estate plan
The significance of an estate plan transcends the mere distribution of your assets after your demise. Integrating a Power of Attorney (POA) ensures that a trusted individual is empowered to make decisions reflecting your best interests when you're not in a position to do so.
Enhancing Pension Contributions For A Brighter Future
Contributing additional amounts to your pension stands to benefit you significantly in the long term. We explore in our blog different ways you can enhance your pension savings for a brighter future.
New Pension Tax Framework
The implications of these changes will largely depend on individual circumstances, such as the aggregate value of one's pension savings, any prior withdrawals from pension schemes and existing lifetime allowance protections.
ISAs: End of Tax Year Reminder
This time of year presents an opportune moment to examine both your personal and business finances to ensure they are structured to optimise your tax efficiency. Despite the ongoing freeze on many tax rates and thresholds, numerous strategies remain for organising your financial matters tax-efficiently. We've outlined some of the key areas in which you are able to make the most of tax-saving measures before the deadline arrives: