Tax Year-End Planning: What You Need to Consider Before 6th April

Rachel Reeves, UK Chancellor, holding the red Budget Box, symbolising the tax year-end and upcoming financial planning opportunities for 2025

By Samuel Mather-Holgate  As we approach the end of the 2024/25 tax year on 5th April, time is running out to make the most of your tax allowances and reliefs. This is a critical period for both individuals and business owners to ensure they have maximised tax-efficient savings, used their allowances effectively, and prepared for…

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Ten Reasons to Boost Your Pension Before April 2025

Retired couple enjoying a holiday by the pool, representing the benefits of boosting your pension for a comfortable retirement.

By Samuel Mather-Holgate As the tax year draws to a close, there’s no better time to review your pension contributions and ensure you’re taking full advantage of the tax breaks and allowances available. Even with upcoming changes to inheritance tax (IHT) on pension death benefits, pensions remain one of the most tax-efficient ways to save…

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The Hidden Risks of Co-Habiting: What You Need to Know About Property Ownership

A co-habiting couple holding paper hearts, representing the importance of property rights and legal protection for unmarried partners

By Samuel Mather-Holgate For many couples, co-habiting feels like a natural step in their relationship. You share a home, expenses, and perhaps even dreams for the future. However, when it comes to property ownership, co-habiting couples face a significantly different legal landscape compared to those who are married or in a civil partnership. Without proper…

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A Guide to UK Pension Advice for Overseas Residents

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

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 matter, understanding your pension options is essential to secure your retirement. From transfers to benefits, annuities to drawdown, and even inheritance planning, navigating the complexities of UK…

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

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

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, it’s natural to wonder how this change in leadership might affect financial markets and, in turn, your investments. While political developments can sometimes spark uncertainty, successful investing…

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Key Highlights from the 2024 Autumn Budget

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

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 to changes in inheritance tax and capital gains, these new measures reflect the government’s goals to stabilise finances while funding essential public services. You can read the…

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

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

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 each have individual symptoms varying in severity. World Stroke Day, observed on October 29th, is a day dedicated to raising awareness about stroke prevention, symptoms, treatment, and…

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

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

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 income, or help family members. For older homeowners, there are a variety of lending solutions available, including traditional mortgages, retirement interest-only mortgages (RIO), and lifetime mortgages. Each…

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Accessing Personal Insurance for People with HIV

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

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, particularly in terms of medical care and access to insurance. At Mather & Murray Financial, we understand the unique challenges and opportunities that these changes present. Recent…

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