Lifetime gifts can affect UK Inheritance Tax (IHT) planning. Featuring in The Scotsman Money Q&A, Wendy Morrison explains that larger gifts made during your lifetime may be exempt from IHT if the giver lives for
The use of pensions in the UK has long been a cornerstone of estate planning. However, with significant changes on the horizon, understanding the implications of how pensions are treated is more critical than ever.
In December’s Scotman Money Q&A, Chartered Financial Planner Andrew Sutherland explains why the notion that inheritance tax (IHT) only affects the ultra-rich no longer holds true. Even many married couples may pass on as much
The 2025 Autumn Budget, announced on 26th November 2025, introduced a range of updates that may influence taxes, savings, and longer-term financial planning. Key points include the continuation of current income tax and national insurance
With the Autumn Budget closing in, we are starting to see several rumours and different speculations in mainstream news, all with a slight variation of what may be proposed by the Labour Government this month.
When financial rumours circulate, particularly in the lead-up to a Budget, it can be helpful to remain measured and focus on verified information. Paul Gillen, Chartered Financial Planner at Acumen Financial Planning, notes that speculation
At Acumen Financial Planning, we recognise that discussions around pensions – such as potential changes to tax relief or tax-free lump sums – can raise questions. In The Scotman’s Your Money Q&A, Chartered Financial Planner
Choosing the right retirement income isn’t a ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach. Some retirees seek guaranteed income, while others value flexibility to adapt their spending over time. Before 2015, annuities were the main option, offering lifetime payments and
Planning for retirement involves a range of important decisions, and understanding how to manage pension funds effectively can make the process clearer. Over time, it’s common for individuals to accumulate multiple pensions from different employers
Many people think retirement planning can wait, but the earlier you start, the greater the benefits. Life decisions like buying a home, changing careers, or reducing work hours all affect your long-term financial picture. Early
