Tax relief could boost your pension and mean you have more financial freedom in retirement. Yet it’s something that you may overlook when reviewing your pension, as analysis suggests that some workers aren’t claiming their full entitlement. In fact, according to a report in the Telegraph, higher- and additional-rate taxpayers could have missed out on as much as £811 million …
Investment market update: January 2023
Investors should expect further volatility in the markets in 2023, experts suggest. Economies around the world are facing recession due to factors including high inflation and rising interest rates. The International Monetary Fund’s Kristalina Georgieva predicts that a third of the global economy will be in recession this year. The World Bank also has a similar outlook, as it cut …
International Women’s Day: 5 things you could do to improve your long-term financial wellbeing
This year’s theme for International Women’s Day is “Accelerate Action”. While huge strides have been made in improving financial independence for women, there’s still a significant gap. It could harm your overall wellbeing and your options in the future. If you want to take steps to improve your long-term financial security, there are things you can do now. 1. Don’t …
Estate planning: How to understand the value of your assets and estate
When you’re deciding how to pass on assets and who you want them to go to, understanding their value, and how this might change, is crucial. Last month, you read about why estate planning should be part of your overall financial and life plan. Now, read on to discover why getting to grips with what your estate covers is important. …
Millions of fixed-rate mortgages are ending. Discover 6 practical steps you can take now
Over the last year, interest rates have increased from historic lows. Fixed-rate mortgage payers that have been shielded from the rises so far could find their outgoings rise if their deal ends in 2023. The Bank of England increased its base interest rate several times over the last 12 months to tackle high levels of inflation. For savers, it’s been …
4 reasons you may want to boost your ISA before the tax year ends
You have until 5 April 2023 to make the most of your ISA allowance for the current tax year. If you want to boost your savings or investments, adding more to your ISA could make sense. For the 2022/23 tax year, you can add up to £20,000 to adult ISAs. The allowance is for each individual. So, if you’re planning …
Explained: Your 3 main options when accessing your pension for the first time
If you’re saving into a defined contribution (DC) pension, you can choose how you access the money. You’ll also be responsible for ensuring the savings provide you with an income for the rest of your life, so understanding the different options available to you is crucial. Most workers saving for retirement will have a DC pension. This is where your …
Investment market update: December 2022
2022 ended with uncertainty and volatility that’s persisted for much of the year. Read on to find out what happened in December and how it affected investment markets. Looking ahead, uncertainty is likely to be something investors will need to negotiate in 2023 too. As economies continue to struggle with high levels of inflation, Goldman Sachs CEO David Solomon warned …
5 fantastic reasons to work with a mortgage broker
While you can take out a mortgage without the support of a mortgage broker, their help can be invaluable. Whether you’re a first-time buyer, moving home or remortgaging, a broker can help you understand all your options and could help you save money. Here are five reasons to choose an independent broker. How could a mortgage broker help you? 1. …
61% of Brits feel stressed about later-life planning. Here are 5 things you can do to boost your confidence
The majority of Brits feel stressed about planning their retirement, a survey from Aviva finds. While later-life planning can seem complex, taking control of your goals and pension during your working life can mean you feel more confident. The survey found that 61% of Brits feel stressed when they think about retirement planning. Unsurprisingly, given the current economic uncertainty, money …