Navigating life’s pivotal moments can bring a mix of both excitement and apprehension. While some situations might be joyous, such as a marriage or the birth of a child, others can be challenging to navigate, such as divorce or separation. Moreover, while these life events can enrich our journey, they might also come with substantial financial implications. From helping a loved one take their first step onto the property ladder to embracing retirement, understanding and preparing for these milestones is crucial. I want to talk about the key life events where the expertise of a financial planner could be invaluable and highlight how proactive planning can help improve your future financial wellbeing. Here are six important life events where the... Read More

Inheritance Tax (IHT) is a complicated subject. In fact, IFA Magazine reports that 71% of UK adults don’t fully understand how it works. This lack of awareness could lead to significant financial burdens for grieving families, who may face an unexpected tax bill at an already difficult time. When you understand how IHT works, you are empowered to make informed decisions about your estate and plan to help ensure that your financial legacy endures. I’m here to break down what IHT is, who it affects, and help shed some light on important thresholds and exemptions. Here’s what you need to know. Inheritance Tax is a tax on the total estate of someone who has died An “estate” in this sense... Read More

Life is full of surprises. Some are pleasant and some are not. Whether it’s a sudden job loss or a costly home repair, if you’re not ready for the unexpected, you could find yourself out of pocket. The key to navigating these challenges could lie in proactive preparation. After all, building a robust financial safety net isn’t just about saving money, it’s about securing peace of mind and ensuring your long-term financial wellbeing. Let’s explore three essential steps you can take to build a secure financial safety net for yourself and your family. 1. Put an emergency fund in place to act as a buffer One of the first things you can do to help prepare yourself for a financial... Read More

While it might be common knowledge that many marriages end in divorce, you might assume that if a relationship has survived the test of time, it’s unlikely to break down. However, the number of “grey divorces”, or couples who separate after the age of 50, is on the rise. In fact, Women’s Health reports that the rate of grey divorce has more than doubled since the 1990s. There may be many reasons for this, including financial disagreements, retirement disputes, and even “empty nest syndrome”. Ultimately, regardless of how it came to be, separating later in life can be challenging. For example, you may not be prepared for these five surprising effects a grey divorce could have on your financial plan.... Read More

Your workplace pension is an important part of your long-term financial security, yet many employees don’t fully understand the ins and outs of their schemes. By asking your employer a few key questions, you could ensure you’re taking full advantage of everything they have to offer and can make informed decisions that align with your retirement goals. From maximising employer contributions to understanding ethical investment options, clarity and knowledge will be your strongest allies. With that in mind, here are six questions you may want to ask your employer, whether you’ve been working for them for two years or 10. 1. How much am I contributing? A key part of understanding your pension begins with knowing the percentage of your... Read More