Inheritance Tax: Wealth Planning & Management

Planning for the future, especially in terms of wealth and estate management, is a critical aspect of financial security.

In the United Kingdom, Inheritance Tax (IHT) is a significant consideration for individuals looking to pass on their assets to their loved ones efficiently. Wealth planning, combined with the expertise of tax and financial advisors, can play a pivotal role in ensuring your estate is distributed as you wish and minimising the impact of IHT.

Understanding Inheritance Tax (IHT)

Inheritance Tax is a tax on the estate (including property, money, and possessions) of someone who has passed away. IHT is typically charged at a rate of 40% on the value of the estate above the nil-rate band which for the 2023/24 tax year, the IHT nil-rate band is £325,000. Understanding IHT is essential for effective wealth planning because, without proper management, a significant portion of your assets may be subject to tax.

The Importance of Wealth Planning

Wealth planning encompasses a range of strategies and financial decisions aimed at preserving and growing your assets. While many people may associate wealth planning with investment strategies, it also includes effective estate planning to ensure your wealth is passed on to your heirs or beneficiaries as you intend. Effective wealth planning can help you achieve several objectives, including:

• Minimising Tax Liability: Wealth planning involves using legitimate strategies to reduce the impact of taxes like Inheritance Tax, Capital Gains Tax, and Income Tax.
• Asset Protection: It helps to protect your assets from potential creditors, lawsuits, or other threats.
• Ensuring Financial Security: Wealth planning ensures you have enough resources to maintain your lifestyle throughout retirement while safeguarding the financial future of your successors.
• Charitable Giving: Wealth planning can help structure your giving to maximise your impact.

How can a Professional Advisor Assist in Wealth and Estate Planning?

Expert Tax advisory and financial advisors have expert knowledge and expertise in wealth management and planning. They can provide invaluable assistance in your wealth planning efforts, especially in the context of Inheritance Tax management:

1. Assessment of Your Financial Situation: Offers an evaluation of your current financial situation, including your assets, liabilities, income, and goals, effectively assessing your exposure to IHT.

2. Tailored Strategies: Based on your unique circumstances and objectives, financial advisors can recommend strategies to minimise the impact of Inheritance Tax. This may include gifting, the use of trusts, investments, and insurance policies.

3. Investment Advice: Financial advisors can provide guidance on investment options that align with your financial goals. Certain investments may offer tax benefits, which a tax advisor can help to structure your portfolio for tax efficiency.

4. Estate Planning: In collaboration with legal professionals, financial advisors can assist in drafting or updating your will and creating trusts to ensure your assets are distributed as per your wishes.

5. Regular Review: Wealth planning is an ongoing process and having an advisor managing your assests offers regular reviews into your financial situation to ensure your strategies remain effective, making any adjustments where necessary.

6. Risk Management: Financial advisors can also help you manage risks associated with your wealth, such as market volatility, economic changes, and unforeseen events.

Smart planning

Engaging professional advice from the likes of a financial and tax advisor, working together to review and manage your portfolio allows you to effectively maximise the benefits of any tax allowances while ensuring your assets are protected and passed on efficiently. Seeking expert guidance provides individuals with tailored strategies, and ongoing reviews to help you achieve your financial goals while minimising any tax liability. Wealth planning, including effective estate planning, is crucial for managing the impact of Inheritance Tax and ensuring your estate is passed down as you wish.

It’s essential to seek professional advice and develop a comprehensive wealth plan that aligns with your unique circumstances and long-term objectives. This ensures that your hard-earned assets benefit your loved ones and avoids any unsuspecting tax bills.

We can help

We understand that everyone has different circumstances and needs. By taking a co-ordinated approach to all areas of life events, we ensure your wealth is passed on in the most effective way.

For more information on our IHT services, email us at info@wttconsulting.co.uk or call us on +44 (0)20 3468 0000 to find out how we can help you plan right.