Bereavement benefits extended to unmarried couples
The eligibility for some bereavement payments has now been extended to unmarried couples, but there are two major caveats to be aware of. How could they affect you?
Financial Planning
Your New Year financial checklist
2022 was an eventful year – churning government personnel, no formal Budget, high inflation, rising interest rates and volatile investment markets, which is good reason to start your financial planning for 2023.
Dissecting inflation: What a difference a year makes
Annual CPI inflation hit 10.1% in September, but that does not mean every price is showing a double-digit increase.
Tricky teens: inflation set to soar beyond 13%
With projections that inflation could reach 13% and beyond into 2023, many people may be tempted to raid investments and access early retirement benefits to make ends meet.
New reforms set to simplify divorce in England and Wales
From 6 April, divorce will become easier thanks to a change in the law, but even if a split is amicable, independent financial advice is still essential.
The patchwork effect of rising inflation
Despite a sharp CPI rise in 2021, personal experiences are not all created equal, so it’s important that your financial and retirement plans always take account of inflation. Have you considered CPI in your future?
The September mini-Budget
The government has revealed its long-awaited plans to reform England’s funding of social care, but taxpayers will foot the bill. What implications will it have on your financial planning?
Crisis lessons – spotlight falls on social security net
Covid-19 has put the social security system under the spotlight as additional measures were brought in to help those affected. But they may not last, so how would you fare long term if you need a safety net?
Life expectancy shortens… or does it?
The ONS’ lowered life expectancy projections have implications on retirement planning and investments. Check out the updated calculator.
LISA left standing
The Help-to-Buy ISA is gone, though you can still pay in if you already have one. But is the Lifetime ISA really a good alternative for first-time house-buyers? Seek financial advice before investing.