With the autumn budget due on 26 November 2025, the continuing increase in Inheritance Tax (IHT) liability for estates is challenging affected individuals to look at different ways of structuring their finances for the future. As the government continues to raise more funds by way of IHT, The Times and brokers and financial advisers are
Financial planning and the autumn budget Read More »
While it is possible to gift your home to your children, there are numerous implications. It is important to understand the effect the gift could have on your rights, the financial position of both you and your children, and what tax or other liabilities could arise. Additionally, it is not legally possible to give away
Can I gift property to my children? Read More »
If you are the executor or administrator of an estate, you may need to sell a property. Find out what to be aware of and how the probate sale process works. Dealing with an estate administration can be daunting, as well as emotionally difficult, particularly if there is a property to clear and sell. As
How do I sell a probate property? Read More »
The Ministry of Justice has announced that the fee for registering a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) will increase from £82 to £92 on 17th November 2025. Repeat application fees will rise from £41 to £46. Having a Lasting Power of Attorney in place is an essential part of planning for the future. It allows
Lasting Power of Attorney application fee to rise Read More »
When money in a bank or building society is unclaimed for 15 years, the organisation can transfer the assets to the Dormant Assets Scheme (the Scheme). This is a government and financial industry initiative that allows unclaimed funds to be used for social and environmental purposes where the owner cannot be contacted. The Scheme has
The Dormant Assets Scheme explained, and how to avoid your money becoming part of it Read More »
Selling someone’s property as their attorney or deputy If you have been appointed as an attorney under a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) or a deputy under a deputyship order, the time may come when you need to sell a property on behalf of the person whose affairs you are managing. It is essential to
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Estates being stolen after death of individuals with no Will A recent investigation by the BBC has exposed the extent of thefts carried out in cases where someone dies without a Will. The report, published in early July 2025, looked at the estates of several deceased individuals who had not left a Will. It found
Estates being stolen after death of individuals with no Will Read More »
Removing or replacing a court appointed deputy If someone becomes unable to manage their own affairs, relatives can apply to the Court of Protection to have a deputy appointed to represent the individual in financial and other matters. The deputy will usually be a close family member. The time may come when a deputy needs
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What happens if someone dies and their Will is invalid? The rules surrounding making and signing a Will are strict, and when mistakes are made, a Will could be invalid. We look at what happens if someone has died and their Will cannot be used. Having a Will professionally drafted is the best way to
What happens if someone dies and their Will is invalid? Read More »
Law Commission report on modernising Wills published Much of the current law governing Wills dates back to Victorian times and critics have long held that modernisation is needed. The Law Commission has looked at the potential for change and produced a report setting out its recommendations. With a great wealth transfer expected as substantial assets
Law Commission report on modernising Wills published Read More »