Author: Saara Patel

A man successfully altered his Will via text message hours before his death, a recent High Court ruling reveals. This unprecedented case has significant implications for estate planning and Will validity. (Read Time: Approx. 2 minutes) Topics Discussed: The Unconventional Will Change In an extraordinary decision, the High Court has validated a Will altered by…

Dealing with the estate of a deceased loved one can be a daunting process, filled with legal rules and specific restrictions. At its core, probate is the legal right to manage the estate of someone who has died, ensuring their property, money, and possessions are distributed according to their wishes or the law. (Read Time:…

Understanding Gifts and Inheritance Tax (IHT) can be daunting, especially when dealing with Potentially Exempt Transfers (PETs). Knowing the specific rules can help save significant tax liabilities. (Read Time: Approx. 2 minutes) Topics Discussed: The Issue Gifts are typically excluded from a person’s estate for inheritance tax (IHT) if they survive seven years from the…

Considering strategies to reduce your Inheritance Tax (IHT) obligations without losing control of your house or moving out? A co-occupation agreement might be the perfect solution for you. (Read Time: Approx. 2 minutes) Topics Discussed: Inheritance Tax and Your Home For many, their home is their most valuable asset, making it a significant consideration in…

Gifting your home to your children is a generous act, but it comes with significant financial implications. This guide explores the consequences of such a gift and the crucial steps to ensure it is valid for Inheritance Tax (IHT) purposes. (Read Time: Approx. 2 minutes) Topics Discussed: Capital Gains Tax (CGT) Implications When gifting a…

Business Property Relief (BPR) offers significant relief from Inheritance Tax (IHT), enabling business owners to pass on their assets with reduced tax burdens. Understanding BPR is crucial for effective estate planning. (Read Time: Approx. 2 minutes) Topics Discussed: Understanding Business Property Relief Business Property Relief (BPR) allows for a reduction in Inheritance Tax (IHT) on…

A recent decision by the Central London County Court has set a significant precedent in Will disputes, particularly regarding the undue influence exerted over vulnerable individuals. This case involves the Will of Robert Harrington, who at the age of 93, married his carer Guixiang Qin, leading to the drafting of a new Will that excluded…

Making gifts to your loved ones is a generous act, but without careful planning, it can have unexpected tax consequences. Inheritance Tax (IHT) is a complex area that many people overlook, leading to potential financial burdens on their beneficiaries. (Read Time: Approx. 4 minutes) Topics Discussed: Gifts and Inheritance Tax: An Overview When planning to…

Trusts might seem out of fashion, but they remain a crucial tool for managing wealth and minimising tax bills. If you’re keen on protecting the wealth you’ve diligently built over a lifetime, trusts could be an indispensable component of your financial strategy. (Read Time: Approx. 4 minutes) Topics Discussed: What Is a Trust? A trust…

Amid mounting scrutiny, the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) is fast-tracking its investigation into the motor finance sector, with chief Nikhil Rathi signalling a significant likelihood of uncovering irregularities. This move has sent ripples through the financial markets, affecting investor confidence and bank valuations alike. (Read Time: Approx. 2 minutes) Topics Discussed: Financial Tremors and Wider…