Welcome to our latest issue. Nobody wants to consider what would happen if they became too ill to support their family financially. Financial protection is essential to creating a secure future for your loved ones, but understanding what cover you may need can be confusing. We discuss if you have considered the implications financially if you or someone in your family were unable to earn money, became ill or were to die prematurely. It’s not something we like to think about, but if you have left regular employment and are now either retired or have become self-employed, then any previous protection you received from an employer now becomes your responsibility.
We delve into a new analysis of FCA figures. Since 2015, individuals over the age of 55 with defined contribution (DC) pension pots have enjoyed full freedom to decide how to manage their pensions; purchasing an annuity (a guaranteed income for life) is no longer mandatory. We examine how people have utilised these newfound freedoms and the tax implications that have followed.
We look at ways to potentially reduce a capital gains tax (CGT) liability, from using your annual exemption to saving in an Individual Savings Account (ISA). Cuts to the CGT exemption mean that arranging your investments as tax-efficiently as possible is more important than ever. Trusts are a powerful tool for estate planning, providing flexibility and control over asset distribution. Properly structured, they can address various scenarios and requirements, ensuring that your legacy is managed according to your wishes long into the future.
The results of the 2024 Election had not been announced when this issue was published. Our next issue will explore how the outcome could affect personal finances.
We hope you enjoy…
