Workers in an open-plan office.

Explained: How pension tax relief works and boosts your retirement savings

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 …

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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. …

Someone using a mobile banking app.

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 …

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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 …

Someone opening a front door with a key.

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. …

A couple walking their dog in a park.

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 …

An older man working on a laptop.

How Does Phased Retirement Work?

Fewer workers are choosing to give up work on a set date. A study by WTW in its 2024 Global Benefits Attitudes Survey showed that 49 per cent of workers aged 50 or older have either started phasing into retirement or want to do so. What is a phased retirement plan? A phased retirement can take many forms. You may decide to …

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Estate planning: What is it and why does it matter?

Have you thought about how you’ll use assets later in life or what you’d like to happen to them when you pass away? Planning for the future with an estate plan now could improve your long-term security and ensure your wishes are followed. While it can be difficult to think about long-term challenges and understand what decisions are right for …