Blog
Nov 2023
Why am I doing the job of my deceased partner’s bank?
Q: My civil partner died and his bank account was closed - why am I having to chase up his money?
After a short illness, I lost my civil partner, Rob, last August. I sent the death certificate to his bank, which froze and then finally closed his account with them. We are theatre lovers and so had several tickets booked over the next 18 months. I managed to secure a cancellation and a refund, however, as they were bought using my partner’s bank card, the money was returned to the closed account.
Oct 2023
Did you know there is a 20+ week wait to register a Lasting Power of Attorney?
It’s very difficult to consider planning the end of your life when you’re fit and healthy, but sadly, we often don’t know what’s around the corner - and if you or a loved one were to suddenly become ill, how would you make sure your bills were paid, and how your other financial matters are dealt with?
Aug 2023
Q&A: If my son buys half of my house, will he pay IHT?
My son and I both live in the house that I purchased many years ago when I had a young family.
At the time I was married to my husband who has since passed away and my son grew up here. When my son’s marriage broke down a few years ago, he came back to live with me. I’m not getting any younger, so we recently agreed that he would take over 50% of the property.
Aug 2023
No one needs a tax bill as a housewarming gift
The Bank of Mum and Dad helps get thousands of people on to the property ladder every year, but if you plan to give your children a cash gift, you will also need to consider the tax man if you want to avoid paying a bill later on.
Jul 2023
Remember there's no such thing as a "quickie divorce"
Companies promising to offer a super-fast separation from your spouse will soon be under investigation - and it's about time too!
Will writing services and probate plans are also under the cosh as they face complaints for poor service and pressured selling.
Jul 2023
The 3 myths that could be costing you a large Inheritance Tax bill
As the saying goes, death and taxes are the only certainties in life, so why are we still struggling to plan for them? Especially when combined they can make for one of the costliest of pitfalls.
Jul 2023
There needs to be more “awkward” conversations among blended families
Most of us have good parent-child relationships, but for some reason death and money are still the elephant in the room - even though they are probably the most important conversations we need to be having.
