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Inheritance Tax on Pensions from 2027: Could Your Family Face a 67% Tax Trap?

Advice, General info, Tips | September 3, 2026

By Samuel Mather-Holgate For years, pensions have occupied a particularly valuable place in estate planning. Unlike most other investments, unused pension funds have generally been able to sit outside an individual’s estate for Inheritance Tax purposes. This has meant that many people have deliberately spent ISAs, savings and other assets first while leaving their pension untouched to pass to children or other beneficiaries. That strategy is about to change significantly. From 6 April 2027, most unused pension funds and pension death benefits will be brought within…

A family dining on a beach at sunset, representing the financial security and lifestyle UK expats can achieve through effective pension planning

A Guide to UK Pension Advice for Overseas Residents

Advice, Tips | January 15, 2025

By Samuel Mather-Holgate Living overseas doesn’t mean leaving your UK pension behind. You could be in Malta, Switzerland, Spain, Italy, Canada, France Denmark, or anywhere else for that…

A 2025 target board symbolising financial goal-setting and planning, with a focus on Swindon financial advice for the new year

Start the New Year Right: Review Your Finances and Set Goals for 2025

Tips | January 7, 2025

By Samuel Mather-Holgate The beginning of a new year is a perfect time to hit refresh on your financial plans. Whether you’re aiming to save more, reduce debt,…

AI-generated image of Donald Trump and Elon Musk, symbolizing the intersection of political and economic influence on investments in the 2024 U.S. election

How the 2024 U.S. Election Results Could Impact Your Investments

Advice, Economic Update, Tips | November 12, 2024

By Samuel Mather-Holgate It’s already been a week since the US general election and with Donald Trump elected to a second term as President of the United States,…

Chancellor Rachel Reeves presenting the 2024 Autumn Budget with key financial changes impacting income tax, pensions, and inheritance tax

Key Highlights from the 2024 Autumn Budget

Advice, Economic Update, Tips | October 31, 2024

The Chancellor’s first Autumn Budget under the new Labour government introduced significant updates that could impact your financial plans. From adjustments to stamp duty land tax and pensions…

World Stroke Day awareness graphic highlighting October 29th as a day to raise awareness about stroke prevention, symptoms, and support

Understanding Stroke: Causes, Symptoms, Prevention, and Financial Protection

Advice, Tips | October 29, 2024

By Samuel Mather-Holgate Every year, millions of people around the world experience a stroke. I know, personally, several people who have (and are) going through the ordeal who…

Older couple practising yoga, representing financial flexibility and a healthy lifestyle in retirement

Lending Options for Older Clients: Finding the Right Solution for Your Financial Needs

Advice, Tips | October 23, 2024

By Samuel Mather-Holgate As people are living longer and healthier lives, many older clients are exploring financial options that allow them to maintain their lifestyle, supplement their pension…

Cartoon of a woman looking stressed and anxious about money, symbolising financial stress and its impact on mental health

How Money Affects Mental Health: Financial Wellbeing on World Mental Health Day

Tips | October 10, 2024

As we recognise World Mental Health Day, it’s important to remember that mental health doesn’t exist in isolation. One of the most significant and often overlooked factors affecting…

Rachel Reeves, UK Chancellor of the Exchequer, walking down Downing Street, preparing for the Autumn StatementRachel Reeves, UK Chancellor of the Exchequer, walking down Downing Street, preparing for the Autumn Statement

UK Autumn Statement: How Labour Might Tackle the Fiscal Deficit Without Raising Income Tax, National Insurance, or VAT

Economic Update, Tips | September 12, 2024

Introduction With Labour’s recent election win, attention is now focused on their upcoming Autumn Statement, which will reveal their plans to address the so-called “fiscal black hole.” Labour…

Collage of diverse faces forming a single face, symbolising that HIV can affect anyone, regardless of background

Accessing Personal Insurance for People with HIV

Advice, Tips | August 23, 2024

Accessing Life Insurance and Income Protection for People with HIV: Myths Dispelled and the Importance of Expert Advice Living with HIV has seen significant advancements in recent years,…

Happy toddler playing with educational toys at a playgroup, benefiting from expanded childcare funding

Big Changes Ahead for Childcare Funding!

Tips | August 8, 2024

By Helen Quayle Attention, working families with preschoolers—exciting changes are coming your way! Did you know that childcare funding is about to change significantly? Here’s what you need…

Diverse group of young people from various backgrounds

The Importance of Starting Your Pension Early: A Guide to Financial Security

Tips | July 19, 2024

I understand the crucial role that pensions play in securing your financial future. One of the most frequently asked questions I encounter is about the ideal time to…

Happy older couple driving together in a car post-divorce, symbolizing new beginnings and financial independence

Navigating Financial Planning During Divorce: Essential Considerations

Tips | June 28, 2024

Introduction Divorce can be a profoundly challenging time, affecting individuals not only emotionally but also financially. Understanding how to manage and protect your finances during this significant life…

Colourful military parade celebrating Armed Forces Day, showcasing uniformed personnel marching in formation

Celebrating Armed Forces Day: The Importance of Financial Advice for Our Heroes

Tips | June 24, 2024

Introduction As we approach Armed Forces Day on 29th June, it’s a time not only to honour our service members, veterans, and their families but also to acknowledge…

UK Labour leader Keir Starmer speaking at a public even

Understanding Capital Gains Tax: What to Expect in the 2024 UK General Election

Tips | June 19, 2024

Introduction With the 2024 UK general election drawing near, questions are circulating about potential tax changes under a new government. Capital Gains Tax (CGT) is often a topic…

Cricklade festival flyer

Experience the World at Cricklade Festival 2024: Music, Dance, and Classic Cars Await!

Advice | May 23, 2024

Nestled in the heart of Wiltshire, just a few miles north of Swindon, the historic town of Cricklade invites you to the 2024 edition of its much-loved annual…

Graphic highlighting 6th April, the start of the new UK tax year, emphasizing key financial planning opportunities.

New Tax Year Planning: What You Need to Consider Now

Tips | April 5, 2024

Book a call back now! As we usher in the new tax year, it’s the perfect time to give your finances a spring clean. Whether you’re an experienced…

Happy Mother's Day graphic with text 'Empower Her with Financial Advice' over a floral background, symbolising women's financial empowerment.

Empowering Women with Financial Advice: Top 10 Reasons It’s Essential in the UK

Tips | March 10, 2024

In the UK, financial empowerment for women is not just about equality; it’s about smart planning and recognising the unique challenges women face. With issues like the gender…

Budget Update 2024

Economic Update | March 7, 2024

On 6 March, Chancellor of the Exchequer Jeremy Hunt delivered his Spring Budget to the House of Commons declaring it was “a Budget for long-term growth.” The…

Informative graphic illustrating the concept of Power of Attorney, highlighting key aspects and benefits of setting up an LPA

Power of Attorney: Your Questions Answered

Advice | February 26, 2024

Introduction Navigating the realms of Power of Attorney (POA) can often feel daunting, but it’s a vital component of managing your affairs, both now and in the future….

Diverse generations of a family on swings, symbolising the importance of family legacy planning with will advice in Swindon

Why You Absolutely Need a Will: A Clear and Simple Guide

Tips | January 31, 2024

Introduction Hello! Today we’re tackling an essential topic that’s often overlooked: the importance of making a will. Regardless of your age or wealth, having a will is a…

Happy elderly woman holding a piggy bank, symbolising financial security in retirement through state pension and savings.

Understanding Your State Pension: A Comprehensive Guide

Tips | January 24, 2024

Introduction Welcome to our comprehensive guide on understanding your state pension in the UK. As independent financial advisers based in Swindon, we’re here to help you navigate through…

Illustration of a Hacker with a Laptop

Staying Safe Online: How to Spot and Dodge Scammers

Tips | January 18, 2024

No longer do you have to fall victim to a supposed Nigerian Prince, offering you winnings of an African lottery that you have never entered to get ripped…

A cartoon depiction of a debt bomb chasing a man, illustrating financial stress.

Money and Mental Health: Navigating the Connection with Strategies for Well-being

Tips | January 15, 2024

Introduction In the hustle of life, we often overlook the profound impact our financial health can have on our mental well-being. The intricate dance between money and mental…

Mather & Murray Financial: A girl listens to a teddy bear's heartbeat, symbolising the care and trust offered in financial planning.

Understanding Personal Injury Trusts

Tips | January 12, 2024

Understanding Personal Injury Trusts: A Guide to Financial Security After Serious Injury Introduction When serious injury strikes, navigating the aftermath involves more than just physical recovery. The compensation…

What we do

Trusted by clients across the UK

Just great communication and support with clear instructions and advise

Debbie Smith

3 days ago

Mather & Murray Financial helped me with my first mortgage, thought out the process they went out of their way to ensure everything went smoothly. My mortgage broker Sherril Moore contacted me after work hours to help arrange my mortgage offer and would routinely update me when there was a change to interest rates to ensure I had the best mortgage offer I could. I would highly recommend using Mather & Murray Financial for arranging a mortgage. Update: I have since used Sherril at Mather & Murray to do a Further Advance to my mortgage, once again it was a painless and quick process. Sherril quickly responded to my initial request and after a few emails exchanges and a phone call the application was ready. I was over the moon with the service provided by Sherril and Mather & Murray.

Response from the owner:Thanks for your review Isaac. We're really pleased you are happy with the service and advice you received from Sherril.

Isaac Herbert

5 days ago

Wonderful service, I wouldn't be in my first home without it!

Response from the owner:Thank you so much, Tom, for your lovely review. We’re thrilled to hear Sarah was able to support you on the journey to your first home. It means a great deal to know her help made such a positive difference.

Tom Jarvis

1 week ago

A positive experience Rachel was extremely professional & Knowledgeable. She explained everything clearly & I never felt pressured throughout the whole process. She was always available to answer any questions & she took time to understand my circumstances & what I wanted to achieve. I have complete confidence in thire advice & would have no hesitation recommending them to anyone considering equity release. Elizabeth Firth

Response from the owner:Thank you so much, Elizabeth, for your thoughtful review. We’re delighted to hear Rachel made the process clear, professional, and pressure-free, and that you felt listened to and supported throughout. Your confidence in the advice you received means a great deal, and we truly appreciate your recommendation.

Elizabeth Firth

2 weeks ago

I would definitely recommend this company. I was treated with respect and patience and kept informed at all times.

Response from the owner:Thank you so much, Pam, for your kind review. We’re really pleased to hear you felt respected, supported, and kept informed throughout. Your recommendation means a great deal to us.

Pam Lewis

2 weeks ago

Sarah, was a fantastic, knowledgable advisor throughout the process. I feel she went above and beyond to help my partner and i understand everything fully and kept consistent communication throughout! I will advise family and friends to use MMF and Sarah in particular going forward. 10/10 Service!

Response from the owner:Thank you so much, Josh, for your fantastic review. We’re really pleased to hear Sarah was able to support you so clearly throughout the process and keep you well informed along the way. It’s lovely to know you felt she went above and beyond, and we truly appreciate you recommending MMF and Sarah to your family and friends.

Josh Camper King

2 weeks ago

Rachel is nothing short of fantastic. Gave us so much time and was amazing at explaining things to us clearly as we had never had a mortgage or even applied before. From start to finish nothing was ever too much. Our experience as a whole with Mather and Murray has been amazing and we would highly recommend.

Response from the owner:Thank you so much, Matthew, for your lovely review. We’re delighted to hear Rachel was able to make the mortgage process clear and supportive from start to finish, especially as it was your first time applying. It means a great deal to know you had such a positive experience with Mather & Murray, and we really appreciate your recommendation.

Matthew Lewis

2 weeks ago

Attentive and professional service. I felt looked after across the process. Thank you for the great assistance provided

Response from the owner:Thank you for your wonderful review! We're delighted to hear that you felt well taken care of throughout the process. Providing attentive and professional service is our top priority, and your feedback reinforces our commitment to excellence. We look forward to assisting you again in the future.

Rosi

3 weeks ago

Understood my position and gave considered professional advice which can be adapted to changing circumstances, very patient with my questions.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind review. We’re delighted to hear you felt listened to and supported, and that our advice was helpful and adaptable to your circumstances. We really appreciate your feedback and were happy to answer your questions along the way.

Richard Saunders

1 month ago

I cannot speak highly enough of Sherril Moore who expertly, with great kindness and humour, guided us through a very long and what became complicated financial matter. Thank you so very much Sherril, I literally don’t know where we would be without you and latterly Anne Hevingham.

Response from the owner:Thank you, Derek, for your wonderful review. We’re delighted to hear that Sherril’s expertise, kindness and humour made such a difference throughout a long and challenging process, and we’re pleased Anne was able to support you as well. Your kind words and recommendation mean a great deal to us.

Derek Loring

1 month ago

Sean was really helpful and worked really hard to find me a remortgage that worked for me always on the end of the line to answer any questions i had i would recommend mather and Murray

Response from the owner:Thank you, Michael, for your kind review. We’re delighted Sean was able to help you find a remortgage that suited your needs and was there to answer your questions throughout. We really appreciate your recommendation and your support.

Michael Bennett

1 month ago

Lovely people, both Kate and Sue were very reassuring on a subject I find stressful. Kate produced a plan for my pension that fulfilled all I required. During the transfer process, Kate constantly sent updates and we had further conversations so she could provide an outstanding service for me. Everything went smoothly, and I am truly grateful to her knowledge and professionalism during a difficult time.

Response from the owner:Thank you, Jonathan, for your thoughtful review. We’re so pleased Kate and Sue were able to put you at ease and support you throughout the process. It’s wonderful to hear that Kate’s professionalism, regular updates and guidance made everything run smoothly. We really appreciate your kind words and your trust in Mather & Murray Financial.

jonathan crowe

1 month ago

Mike Rice has been professional and extremely personable throughout the whole process of choosing the most appropriate pension and investment options to suit my attitude to risk. His support and guidance throughout the whole process has been faultless. I look forward to continuing with his support and cannot recommend him highly enough.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your wonderful review, Mike. We’re delighted to hear that Mike Rice’s professional, personable support and guidance made the process of considering your pension and investment options so positive. Your kind words and recommendation mean a great deal, and we look forward to continuing to support you.

Mike Bretnall

1 month ago

Outstanding service. I highly recommend Sean Davis for anyone in need of a knowledgeable and reliable mortgage adviser. he took all the stress away from remortgaging our house and worked brilliantly with our solicitors to get it done.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your lovely review. We’re so pleased to hear Sean was able to take the stress out of your remortgage and work smoothly with your solicitors to get everything completed. Your recommendation means a great deal to us, and we really appreciate you taking the time to share your experience.

Agostinho Picardo

2 months ago

Worked very closely with these guys over the last 5 years, recommended to me by the NHS. I finally feel like our finances are in control and we have a long term plan. We’ve had some excellent advice from two very knowledgeable advisors. Very non biased and really good at explaining in layman’s terms - highly recommend

Response from the owner:Thank you, Jane, for such a thoughtful review and for your trust over the past five years — it really means a lot to us. We’re delighted to hear you now feel in control of your finances and have a clear long-term plan in place. It’s great to know the advice has been clear, balanced and easy to understand — that’s exactly what we aim to deliver for every client. Our support continues from here. We’ll be in touch for your regular reviews to keep everything on track, and of course you can contact us any time if your circumstances or goals change. On behalf of the whole team at Mather & Murray Financial, thank you for your recommendation — we really appreciate it.

Jane Brodie

2 months ago

Steven Archer at Mather and Murray has been an absolute godsend. I have four pensions and other investments that I hadn’t a clue what to do with or how to get a regular tax efficient income from. Steve has managed to explain everything clearly and concisely and has come up with a plan tailored to my situation. I now feel much more secure and confident in the future. He is knowledgeable, professional, and personable. If you need to sort out your retirement finances, I highly recommend Steve at Mather and Murray.

Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your kind words, Mark. We’re delighted to hear that Steve was able to explain everything clearly and help you feel more confident about your retirement planning. It’s wonderful to know his knowledgeable, professional and personable approach made such a positive difference. We really appreciate your recommendation.

Mark Allen

2 months ago

I found your company via the find an IFA website. The whole process from booking an initial appointment to discussing with Mike was excellent throughout and he explained all the options and my attitude to risk and helped me choose an appropriate option for my pension now I have reached the age of 55. Mike has been in touch regularly throughout the process and will continue to provide support including advice on my new work pension and where to invest. I can't recommend Mike highly enough. Many Thanks. :-)

Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your lovely review, Andrew. We’re really pleased to hear that the whole process felt clear and supportive from start to finish, and that Mike was able to explain your options in a way that helped you feel confident about your pension planning. It’s great to know his regular communication and ongoing support have been appreciated. Thank you again for your kind recommendation.

Andrew Bridges

2 months ago

Sean was a breath of fresh air. Very knowledgeable, friendly with a swift response turnaround with correspondence. Highly recommend this company.

Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your kind review, Lisa. We’re delighted to hear that Sean’s knowledgeable, friendly approach and prompt communication made such a positive impression. We really appreciate your recommendation.

Lisa Connor

2 months ago

Sherrill was so helpful and pleasant, polite, friendly and human! Everything was explained in plain terms and not rushed. The whole process was seamless and Sherrill supported me throughout. I am extremely pleased that I chose Mather and Murray to help me and would not hesitate to reccomend them and Sherrill to others who needed pensions advice.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your lovely review. We’re so pleased to hear that Sherrill made the process feel clear, supportive and unrushed. Explaining things in plain terms and making people feel comfortable is exactly what we aim for, especially when it comes to pensions advice. We really appreciate your kind words and your recommendation of Sherrill and Mather & Murray Financial.

Maryann Hindmarch

2 months ago

Sherril along with Mather & Murray have provided me with excellent advice regarding my personal pension and retirement planning. I found Sherril very professional & I appreciated her friendly approach in managing my finances. I would highly recommend Sherril to anyone looking for a reliable retirement advice.

Response from the owner:Thank you, Stephen, for your kind review and recommendation. We’re delighted to hear that Sherril’s professional yet friendly approach made such a positive difference. It’s great to know you felt well supported with your pension and retirement planning, and we really appreciate you taking the time to share your experience with Mather & Murray Financial.

Stephen Driscoll

3 months ago

Rachel Hutton was amazing, she was very knowledgable, always happy to advise and easy to contact whenever we had questions. We were very lucky to find her and would strongly recommend her particularly as a mortgage advisor which was what she helped us with, thankyou Rachel!

Response from the owner:Thank you, Chris, for your wonderful review. We’re so pleased to hear Rachel was knowledgeable, approachable and easy to contact throughout. It’s great to know her mortgage advice made such a positive difference, and your recommendation means a lot to us.

Chris Balshaw

3 months ago

Excellent service from Sean and the team. Very professional, friendly and helpful. Sean ensured the transactions went through smoothly to its conclusion. We would highly recommend them to others and will use them again if the need arises. Thank you to all

Response from the owner:Thank you, Barrie, for such a lovely review. We’re delighted to hear Sean and the team provided a professional, friendly and helpful service, and that everything went smoothly through to completion. Your recommendation means a great deal to us, and we’d be very happy to help again whenever needed.

Barrie Hamilton

3 months ago

I am very happy with the service of Mather and Murray for obtaining my pension and specially with the help from Kate Ricks. Very professional, done everything on time and cooperated.

Response from the owner:Thank you, Blair, for your kind review. We’re so pleased to hear you were happy with the service and that Kate’s support made the process a positive one. We really appreciate your feedback and are glad everything was handled professionally and on time.

Blair Marriott

3 months ago

Sean Davis guided us through our process in a measured and very professional manner. There was no hard sell, very transparent and honest throughout and he communicated with us regularly throughout the process. I would not only recommend Mather and Murray but we will be using them again in the future.

Response from the owner:Thank you, David. We’re really pleased to hear Sean guided you through the process in such a professional, transparent and supportive way. It means a great deal to know you felt there was no hard sell and that the communication was clear throughout. We truly appreciate your recommendation of Mather & Murray Financial and look forward to helping you again in the future.

David Connor

3 months ago

We used Sean to assist us in selling our 1st property and ending that mortgage and then buying our new home, finding the best mortgage to suit us and then setting everything up. Along with improving our life insurance, critical illness and income cover. From start to finish Sean was brilliant and a great help with everything and anything. When the process got delayed or obstacles came up he was always on hand to help, check in or make recommendations. We would highly recommend Mather and Murray and Sean and his expertise

Response from the owner:Thank you so much, Mollie. We’re delighted to hear Sean was able to support you from start to finish with your mortgage and protection needs, especially through the delays and obstacles along the way. It’s wonderful to know you felt well looked after and that Sean’s help and recommendations made a difference. We really appreciate your kind words and recommendation of Mather & Murray Financial.

Mollie Potts

3 months ago

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Inheritance Tax on Pensions from 2027: Could Your Family Face a 67% Tax Trap?
September 3, 2026 | Advice, General info, Tips
By Samuel Mather-Holgate For years, pensions have occupied a particularly valuable place in estate planning. Unlike most other investments, unused pension funds have generally been able to sit outside an individual’s estate for Inheritance Tax purposes. This has meant that many people have deliberately spent ISAs, savings and other assets first while leaving their pension…
READ ARTICLE
Should I Consolidate My Pensions? Pros, Cons and What to Check Before Combining The
September 1, 2026 | Advice, General info, Tips
By Samuel Mather-Holgate If you have changed jobs several times during your career, there is a good chance you have built up more than one pension. One pension might be with a former employer. Another may be an old personal pension. You may also have a current workplace pension receiving contributions today. That often leads…
READ ARTICLE
St James’s Place vs Independent Financial Adviser | Mather & Murray
August 20, 2026 | Advice, General info
Written by Sam Mather-Holgate, Independent Financial Adviser Key Takeaways St James’s Place advisers are not independent financial advisers; they advise within the St James’s Place proposition. An independent financial adviser can consider suitable products and providers from across the wider market. Restricted advice is not automatically poor advice, and independent advice is not automatically better….
READ ARTICLE

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