INSIDE THIS ISSUE

As Chancellor John Healey prepares to deliver
his first Autumn Budget, speculation is mounting
over where the government could raise additional
revenue. With the main rates of Income Tax, National
Insurance and VAT ruled out, attention could be
turning to Capital Gains Tax, property, wealth,
pensions and frozen tax thresholds. On page 08,
we explain what might change, the potential impact
on your finances and why reviewing your financial
position ahead of the Budget could help you prepare
rather than react.
Retirement should be a time to enjoy the life you
have worked towards, but without careful planning,
your savings may not stretch as far as you expect. On
page 04, we explore five essential questions to help
you assess your retirement goals, income needs,
pension savings and potential risks, and explain why
professional advice can help you build a more secure
financial future.
Many families may be missing out on a valuable
Inheritance Tax (IHT) exemption that immediately
exempts qualifying regular gifts from surplus
income. Turn to page 03 to discover how the ‘normal
expenditure out of income’ rules work, the conditions
you must meet and why careful record-keeping is
essential, particularly as IHT rules are set to change
from April 2027.
Pension scams are becoming increasingly
sophisticated, putting years of retirement savings
at risk. On page 06, we highlight the warning signs
to watch out for, including unsolicited approaches,
unrealistic returns and high-pressure tactics, and
explain how to check whether an adviser or firm is
authorised. Taking time to verify an opportunity could
help protect your pension from fraud.