Mind the State Pension gap
Knowing how much you’ll receive is vital for planning your future finances
The State Pension age is set to rise to 67 by 2028, followed by a subsequent rise to 68 between 2044 and 2046. However, there is currently a review being conducted to determine the appropriateness of the existing timetable.
State Pension
How much has the 2023/24 State Pension increased by?
If you are a UK resident planning for your retirement, it’s important to be aware of the State Pension changes that have taken effect in the new tax year. From April, the amount you can now receive as part of the UK State Pension has risen, which will be welcome news to those who have retired or are nearing retirement age.
Early bird investors
Does the early bird get the ISA worm?
If you’re an investor looking to maximise your Individual Savings Accounts (ISA) returns, it’s worth considering investing your ISA allowance as soon as possible each year, as soon as it becomes available on 6 April. Not only will this help ensure that your money is protected from taxes right off the bat, but it also means that your investment has more time to grow in the market. This can result in a bigger ISA pot in the long run.
More people choosing semi-retirement for a variety of reasons
Two in five over-55s plan to gradually phase out working life before State Pension age
Semi-retirement is an option to consider for individuals who may not be ready to fully retire, but still wish to reduce their work hours and gradually phase out working life. By choosing to semi-retire, you can maintain a good work-life balance while still earning an income.
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Pensions of significant value
Welcome but unexpected changes to pension tax
Chancellor Jeremy Hunt’s first proper Budget 2023, on Wednesday 15 March, brought some welcome but unexpected changes to pension tax. The changes are designed to alleviate the impact of strict pension rules, which are believed by Mr Hunt to have had a negative impact on the country’s labour market.
Giving while living
What will your legacy look like?
April brought a host of changes to the UK’s tax regime, with some thresholds for taxes such as additional rate Income Tax being lowered while others, such as Corporation Tax, are increased.
Professional financial advice matters
Making informed decisions about how to best allocate your resources
Financial planning is a crucial step towards achieving financial freedom and security. By taking the time to thoroughly evaluate your needs and personal goals, you’ll be able to make informed decisions about how to best allocate your resources.
Financial wellbeing
More than 24.5 million people are financially disengaged
Do you often review your finances? Or are you one of those people who just hope for the best? Although managing finances may not be the most exciting activity, keeping track of your financial wellbeing can make a significant difference to your life, both in the present and in the future. Taking control of your finances will enable you to meet your financial goals and improve your overall financial health.
Relying on an inheritance for future financial security
50% of British adults admit to having checked the value of their parents’ property
With house value data now easily available to access online, it’s interesting to see that so many are using this, not just to get an idea of what their own home may be worth, but to get an idea of the sort of amount they may get in terms of parental inheritance in the future.
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