If you own property in the UK, rising house prices could mean your inheritance tax bills will be higher than you expect. As property values increase, more estates exceed the tax-free thresholds. This means you or your family may owe significant inheritance tax unless careful planning is done. The thresholds for inheritance tax have stayed […]

If you are an unmarried couple living together in the UK, it’s important to understand that you do not have the same automatic legal rights as married couples when it comes to inheritance and estate matters. Without proper estate planning, your partner could face financial difficulties or lose access to shared assets if you pass […]

Your estate plan is a vital document that governs how your assets and wishes are managed. Life is full of changes, and knowing when to review your estate plan ensures it stays up to date and reflects your current situation. Without regular checks, outdated plans can lead to confusion or unintended consequences for your loved […]

If you are a UK resident with assets abroad, estate planning can quickly become complicated. Different countries have their own rules on inheritance, tax, and the validity of wills. To ensure your international assets are passed on according to your wishes, you need a clear plan that considers these cross-border differences. Simply including overseas property […]

Protecting your business interests through effective estate planning is essential to ensure your company continues to thrive even when you are no longer involved. An estate plan helps you avoid conflicts, minimise tax liabilities, and guarantees a smooth transfer of ownership and control. This allows your business to remain stable and preserves its value for […]

Creating a comprehensive estate plan means combining wills, trusts, and lasting powers of attorney (LPAs) to protect your assets and ensure your wishes are followed. By using all three tools, you can manage how your property is distributed, avoid lengthy legal processes, and appoint someone to make decisions on your behalf if you become unable […]

Mirror wills are often seen as a convenient way for couples to plan their estates together. However, they can sometimes lead to unexpected problems, especially when circumstances change or when one partner passes away. Mirror Wills can backfire if they are not drafted carefully, resulting in disputes or unintended consequences that may harm the surviving […]

A lasting power of attorney (LPA) is an essential part of any wealth plan because it ensures someone trusted can manage financial and health decisions if the individual cannot. Without an LPA, loved ones may face delays or legal difficulties when trying to act on a person’s behalf, especially during unexpected situations like illness or […]

A Mirror Will is a pair of Wills made by two people, usually spouses or partners, that contain similar or identical terms. They name each other as the main beneficiary and often include a plan for what happens if both die at the same time. This arrangement helps couples make sure their assets pass smoothly […]

Many people believe they are far from owing inheritance tax, but the truth is that more estates reach the threshold than expected. The current limit before inheritance tax applies is £325,000 per person, with additional allowances if passing on a home. This means a significant number of people may be closer to the tax threshold […]

Inheritance tax (IHT) and pensions are often seen as separate parts of financial planning, but many overlook how crucial pensions can be in managing IHT. Pensions have long been a tax-efficient way to pass on wealth, but changes coming in 2027 mean retirees must rethink their strategies carefully. Understanding how pensions interact with inheritance tax […]

Passing on wealth to the next generation can be challenging if you want to keep control while ensuring your assets benefit your family. The key is careful planning that balances control with flexibility, using strategies like trusts, corporate structures, and estate planning tools. This helps protect your wealth and allows you to guide how it […]

Updating your mirror will is important to make sure your wishes stay clear and relevant. You should review your mirror will every five years or after any major life event, such as marriage, divorce, or a change in your financial situation. This keeps your plans up to date and helps avoid any confusion or disputes […]

Mirror Wills are commonly used by couples who want their estates handled in a similar way. They involve creating two nearly identical legal documents that set out how each person’s assets are passed on. Knowing how Mirror Wills differ from other types of wills is key to choosing the right option. Writing a mirror will […]

A mirror will is a pair of wills made by you and your partner that are almost identical, often used to protect each other's wishes after one of you passes away. It helps ensure your estate is handled fairly between you both and can make the process simpler and less costly than individual wills. If […]

When you create a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA), it’s important to include your digital assets so they can be managed if you lose the ability to do so yourself. To make provisions for digital assets in your LPA, you need to specify these assets clearly and grant your attorney the authority to access and […]

Planning for inheritance tax on agricultural and rural estates is crucial for anyone involved in farming or managing land. Being aware of options like Agricultural Property Relief (APR) and Business Property Relief (BPR) can significantly reduce the tax burden and help preserve your estate for future generations. Understanding these reliefs allows you to make informed […]

Pensions play a crucial role in estate planning, allowing you to secure your family’s financial future even after you're gone. By utilising your pension wisely, you can ensure that your beneficiaries inherit funds that are often free from inheritance tax, maximising the legacy you leave behind. This important tool can help shape the way you […]

When planning your estate, it’s crucial to understand the distinct roles of executors and trustees. An executor manages your estate after you pass away, ensuring your wishes are fulfilled as outlined in your Will. In contrast, a trustee oversees assets placed in a trust, managing them for beneficiaries according to your specifications. Navigating these roles […]

Pension drawdown is a flexible way to access your pension savings during retirement. This option allows you to take money from your pension pot while it remains invested. Understanding how pension drawdown works is essential for determining if it fits your retirement plans. With drawdown, you can often take up to 25% of your pension […]