August 2025

The FCA Thematic Review on Retirement Income highlights the need to consider all income sources when planning. Many adviser firms have their preferred solutions, but a strong retirement process must remain flexible. Above all, it should centre on client needs. One income source often overlooked is the state pension. This blog challenges the traditional view […]

HMRC has released draft legislation that, if approved, will significantly change how pension death benefits are treated for Inheritance Tax (IHT) from April 2027. These proposals could impact estate planning for many people, so it is important to understand what is changing and how it may affect you. Will I have to pay Inheritance Tax

Why bother planning retirement in your 30s? “Do I need a financial planner in my 30s?” It’s a common thought. Retirement feels like a distant problem, something to worry about after the kids are grown or the mortgage is paid. I used to think the same when I was contemplating retirement planning in my 30s

The emotional side of retirement is often overlooked, yet it plays a crucial role in a fulfilling life post-career. We’ve spoken to clients who followed the traditional “one-and-done” route. Some had great plans, but once the garden was sorted and the house was repainted, they found themselves feeling lost. The emotional impact was evident as

Significant changes are coming to how pensions are treated when someone dies, potentially affecting the inheritance tax implications for beneficiaries. The draft Finance Bill 2025 proposes that, from 6 April 2027, some pension funds will count as part of a person’s estate for inheritance tax (IHT). For many, pensions have been a tax‑efficient way to