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For those on the brink, the report paints an even grimmer picture, with 9% of adults reportedly nearing a financial crisis and 2% already firmly caught in one.

Mid-life adults are encountering greater challenges

When analysed by demographics, middle-aged adults emerge as the group most at risk of financial instability. Strikingly, 16% of those in their 40s and 50s are either close to or already experiencing a crisis. Moreover, satisfaction levels among this group regarding their standard of living are alarmingly low, with only 41% expressing contentment.

Despite this concerning situation, there has been a slight improvement for some. The percentage of adults reporting disposable income at the end of the month increased to 59% this year, compared with 49% in 2024. Additionally, average cash savings rose modestly from £15,549 to £15,864.

Many families still feel the pinch

This recovery, however, is not universal. Families with children under 18 continue to struggle disproportionately. Nearly half (47%) of these families report being on the brink of a financial crisis, while others are already adopting coping mechanisms. Among their strategies, 36% admitted to reducing heating usage, 33% to cutting down on social outings and 11% to skipping meals altogether.

Consumers most impacted by these increases are renters, particularly those in the private rental sector. Last year, nearly 72% of single-person households saw rises in housing costs. On average, these costs increased by £218 per month, with private renters facing a sharper rise of £304.

Housing costs squeeze UK renters and homeowners

According to the report, housing costs have also increased for mortgage holders. Over half of those with mortgages reported an average annual rise in payments of £327 per month. Single mortgage borrowers living alone faced a similar increase of £298, with serious implications for the sustainability of their living arrangements.

This income squeeze naturally impacts an individual’s ability to save or keep savings. However, it also has far-reaching effects on long-term financial security, particularly regarding retirement contributions. While only 5% of adults reported reducing or stopping their pension payments, a notable 43% admitted that their retirement plans had been altered by the ongoing cost of living crisis.

Tackling retirement blind spots

Perhaps unsurprisingly, the report highlights a lack of engagement with retirement planning among UK adults. A startling 69% of adults admitted to being unaware of the amount of money they currently have in their defined contribution pension funds. Equally concerning is the finding that over half of those surveyed (52%) had not thought in the past year about how much they would need for a comfortable retirement.

This oversight in planning exposes a broader problem, as many people simply don’t know where to start. With life expectancy increasing and retirement costs rising, it is vital for individuals to think about their financial futures early on.

Practical steps to improve resilience

The report offers several practical suggestions to help households prepare for and manage the storm. Key advice includes reviewing household bills for potential savings and exploring social tariffs that could provide financial relief. Families are also encouraged to draw up a clear and realistic budget, enabling them to plan for rising costs.

A crucial part of enhancing resilience is creating a financial safety net. Even modest savings can shield individuals from borrowing at high interest rates during unforeseen financial crises. Furthermore, it is important to consider how shocks, such as illness or redundancy, could affect the household’s financial stability. Practical measures, such as reviewing employment benefits and exploring income protection insurance, can help reduce these uncertainties.

Preparing for a secure retirement

For long-term stability, planning ahead is crucial. Preparing for retirement – from estimating your desired retirement age to forecasting living costs – can help ease future financial burdens. Tools such as budget planners or apps, as well as checking your State Pension forecast, can provide a helpful starting point.

Ultimately, although external economic conditions are often beyond individual control, proactive measures can greatly enhance financial resilience.

Source data:

[1] All figures, unless otherwise stated, are from YouGov Plc. Total sample size was 4003 adults. Fieldwork was undertaken between 26th February
– 5th March 2025. The survey was carried out online. The figures have been weighted to be representative of all GB adults (aged 18 and above).

Large contributions can assist individuals who have delayed pension saving due to cost concerns or competing financial priorities. They are also attractive for those looking to transfer significant funds into a tax-efficient account. However, there are annual limits to consider, and understanding how these operate is essential to avoid unnecessary charges.

How pension contributions work

When you contribute to a pension plan, your contributions benefit from tax relief. For personal pensions, such as a Self-Invested Personal Pension (SIPP), your provider claims 20% tax relief from HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC). If you are a higher or additional rate taxpayer, you can claim additional relief through your self-assessment tax return or tax code adjustment for higher rate only, which can significantly reduce your overall tax bill.

Another advantage is that your investments grow tax-free as long as they remain within the pension. Investment income, interest and any gains are exempt from taxes. However, remember that once you start withdrawing from your pension, Income Tax will be applicable, except for the current first 25% (often called the tax-free lump sum), up to a maximum of £268,275 for most people.

Understanding your annual allowance

Your own pension contributions that qualify for tax relief are subject to limits. This is capped at the higher of 100% of your UK taxable earnings or £3,600 (including tax relief). There is also an annual allowance that limits how much you and others can contribute across all your pensions each tax year without incurring additional taxes.

For the 2025/26 tax year, the annual allowance is set at £60,000. For defined contribution pensions, this allowance is straightforward to calculate; it includes your contributions, tax relief and any payments made by employers or third parties. However, for final salary or defined benefit pensions, the situation is more complex. The annual increase in the pension’s capitalised value over the tax year is used as the benchmark, and your scheme administrator can perform this calculation.

Impact of tapered allowances

High earners might face a reduced annual allowance, known as the ‘tapered annual allowance’. This applies if your threshold income exceeds £200,000 and your adjusted income surpasses £260,000. It could reduce your annual allowance to as little as £10,000, depending on your earnings and employer contributions.

After retirement, opting for flexi-access to your pension, such as through drawdown, triggers the Money Purchase Annual Allowance (MPAA) as soon as anything above your tax free lump sum is withdrawn. This limits your tax-efficient annual contributions to money purchase pensions to just £10,000 (including employer and third party contributions as well as your own). Recognising these restrictions is crucial to avoiding tax penalties on excess payments.

Carry forward unused allowances

If you haven’t used your full annual allowance in previous tax years, you may be able to carry forward unused portions to make larger contributions now. This rule allows you to access unused allowances from the past three tax years, giving you the opportunity to ‘catch up’ on missed contributions.

Carry forward is particularly helpful for self-employed individuals with fluctuating incomes or those expecting large contributions from a windfall, such as an inheritance or the sale of a business. However, the process has certain requirements. For example, you must have been a member of a UK-registered pension scheme in previous years, and your earnings in this tax year must support the contribution amount you plan to make if the contribution is to be a personal one.

Planning for employer contributions

For business owners, there is greater flexibility when making contributions through a company. Employer contributions are permitted up to the individual’s annual allowance and carried forward amounts. Importantly, these payments do not need to be connected to taxable income. However, if they are to receive corporation tax relief, the company contributions must satisfy the ‘wholly and exclusively’ test, ensuring they are reasonable in relation to your role and salary.

Remember that in previous years, the annual allowance was lower, limited to £40,000 prior to the 2023/24 tax year. Also, any reductions due to the tapered annual allowance must be included. These details emphasise the complexity of correctly applying carry-forward rules.

Monitor your tax position

Exceeding your annual or carried forward allowances has consequences. Any excess contributions are subject to a tax charge. It is your responsibility to report this to HMRC and pay the required charges through your self-assessment tax return or from the pension plan.
Considering the complexities involved, from the MPAA to implementing rules, seeking professional advice is crucial. Whether you want to optimise your contributions or understand personalised strategies, we can guide you towards making the most of your pension.

This article does not constitute tax, legal or financial advice and should not be relied upon as such. Tax treatment depends on the individual circumstances of each client and may be subject to change in the future. For guidance, seek professional advice. A pension is a long-term investment not normally accessible until age 55 (57 from april 2028 unless the plan has a protected pension age). The value of your investments (and any income from them) can go down as well as up, which would have an impact on the level of pension benefits available.

Generally, early retirement refers to leaving full-time employment before reaching the State Pension age, which is currently 66 in the UK but is scheduled to increase to 67 between 2026 and 2028. For those contemplating retirement at 55 or even earlier, it may involve completely stepping away from paid work or shifting into part-time roles or personal pursuits. Ultimately, early retirement is about enjoying the freedom to choose how to spend your time without depending on a regular salary.

Exploring the reasons behind early retirement

People choose early retirement for various reasons. Some wish to enjoy good health while they can, while others feel the need to take it easy after many years of demanding work. For many, financial security is essential in supporting this lifestyle, relying on assets such as private pensions, Individual Savings Accounts (ISAs), property portfolios or investments.

For those with sufficient wealth, the freedom to regain control of their time is highly attractive. Nonetheless, it is equally crucial to consider the long-term challenges faced by early retirees, such as inflation reducing the purchasing power of money and market fluctuations affecting investment returns.

Preparing for emotional readiness

Although the financial aspect often dominates early retirement planning, it is equally crucial to consider the psychological side. After years of structured routines, mentally preparing for a major lifestyle change is essential. Are you ready to fill the void left by your career, both in terms of time and purpose?

Another point to consider is the limited access to pensions before the age of 55 (rising to 57 from 2028). Retiring at 55 or soon after may result in a smaller pension pot and fewer benefits, especially for those on final salary schemes. To ensure your savings last, you need a careful withdrawal plan.

Don’t overlook the pension and benefits puzzle

Without proper planning, early retirees can quickly exhaust their funds faster than expected. For example, accessing your pension early results in fewer contributions and less time for growth. Withdrawing funds during a market downturn can worsen the situation, emphasising the importance of a solid strategy to withstand economic fluctuations.

You also need to bridge the income gap caused by not claiming your State Pension until the official age. Checking your situation through a State Pension forecast on gov.uk can reveal potential gaps in your National Insurance record. While recent reforms removed the Pension Lifetime Allowance, future legislative changes could still impact larger pension pots, especially for early retirees seeking to optimise long-term returns. The Lump Sum Allowance (LSA) and Lump Sum Death Benefit Allowance (LSDBA) are now in place to limit tax-free lump sums (lifetime and death).

The impact of leaving employment

An often-overlooked consequence of leaving the workforce early is the loss of employer contributions and workplace benefits such as private medical insurance or death-in-service cover. These are valuable assets that enhance financial security and should be part of your decision-making process.

Meanwhile, cashflow modelling can help estimate how much money you’ll need for early retirement, providing clarity on whether your planned lifestyle matches your available resources. Consulting a financial planner can simplify this process and highlight any potential blind spots.

Balancing risks with rewards

There’s no denying the appeal of early retirement. Retirees finally gain time to pursue hobbies, personal interests and family, often boosting their physical and mental wellbeing. For some, stepping away from high-stress careers brings immediate health benefits and offers a much-needed reset.

However, there is another side to the coin. Retiring early extends the period during which your funds must last, increasing the risk of outliving your money. Retiring at 50, for instance, could mean planning for more than 30 years of expenses. Financial resilience, tax-efficient strategies and contingency plans become even more essential.

Lifestyle and social considerations

Leaving work early doesn’t just impact your finances; it also influences your lifestyle. Work offers more than just an income; it provides structure, purpose and social connections. Without access to a workplace community or regular responsibilities, some retirees can feel isolated or lack direction.

Furthermore, the absence of employer-subsidised healthcare means you will have to pay higher private insurance premiums as you get older. These healthcare costs can unexpectedly put a strain on your finances, highlighting the importance of detailed financial planning.

A pension is a long-term investment not normally accessible until age 55 (57 from april 2028 unless the plan has a protected pension age). The value of your investments (and any income from them) can go down as well as up, which would have an impact on the level of pension benefits available.

Myth 1: Working part-time or taking a break means no pension

It’s a common misconception that part-time workers or those taking a career break cannot contribute to a pension. The reality is quite different.

Part-time workers:
If you earn over £10,000 a year with one employer and are aged 22 to state pension age, you are automatically enrolled in a workplace pension under the automatic enrolment rules. Even if you earn less, you can, in some cases, still choose to join your employer’s pension scheme and receive employer contributions.

Career breaks:
If you are taking time off to care for children or relatives, you can still build your pension. For example, claiming Child Benefit while earning below the National Insurance threshold ensures you receive National Insurance credits, which count towards your State Pension. Additionally, you can continue contributing to a personal pension during your break.

Myth 2: It’s too late to start saving into a pension

Many believe that starting a pension later in life is futile, but this couldn’t be further from the truth.

Tax relief:
Contributions to your pension benefit from tax relief, meaning the government adds to your savings. For example, a £100 contribution only costs a basic rate taxpayer £80.

Flexible contributions:
You can contribute to your pension until the age of 75, giving you more time to build your retirement fund. Even small contributions in your 40s, 50s or later can grow substantially, especially with employer contributions and tax relief.

Myth 3: Property is a substitute for a pension

While property is often viewed as a retirement safety net, it’s not a substitute for a pension.

Unpredictable housing market:
Property values can fluctuate, and selling or downsizing may not generate the income you expect.

Liquidity:
Unlike pensions, property is not easily accessible. A pension provides a steady income, while property may require selling or renting out to generate cash.

Tax benefits:
Pensions offer tax relief on contributions and tax-free growth, a benefit that property investments do not provide.

Myth 4: You must stop working when you access your pension

Accessing your pension doesn’t mean you have to stop working.

Work and draw your pension:
You can withdraw from your pension while continuing to work, providing a supplementary income.

Tax planning:
Be aware of tax implications, as withdrawing from your pension while earning a salary may result in being taxed at a higher rate. We can advise you and assist in optimising your income.

Myth 5: Annuities are your only option

Before 2015, many retirees were required to purchase an annuity with their pension savings. However, pension freedoms have changed the landscape.

Flexible options:
You can now choose from options like flexi-access drawdown, lump-sum withdrawals or leaving your pension invested.

Annuities still have value:
While not mandatory, annuities can provide a guaranteed income for life, making them a suitable option for those seeking financial stability.

Myth 6: Your pension vanishes when you die

A common concern is that pensions disappear upon death, but pensions offer significant flexibility.

Defined contribution pensions:
These can be passed on to beneficiaries. If you die before age 75, your pension can be inherited tax-free. After 75, beneficiaries pay Income Tax on withdrawals at their marginal rate.

Defined benefit pensions:
These often provide a reduced income to a spouse or dependent after your death.

Myth 7: Your pension isn’t protected

Worries about losing your pension if your employer goes bust are understandable but largely unfounded.

Defined contribution pensions:
Your savings are held in a separate trust, protected from your employer’s financial troubles.

Defined benefit pensions:
The Pension Protection Fund (PPF) ensures you still receive most of your benefits if your employer becomes insolvent.

Take control of your retirement planning

Pensions are a vital tool for securing financial stability in retirement, and it’s important not to be misled by false myths. Understanding your options, claiming tax relief and consulting professionals can help you make well-informed choices about your future.

This article does not constitute tax, legal or financial advice and should not be relied upon as such. And should not be relied upon as such. Tax treatment depends on the individual circumstances of each client and may be subject to change in the future. For guidance, seek professional advice. The value of your investments can go down as well as up, and you may get back less than you invested.

They often serve as a safeguard for wealth, ensuring that assets are passed on to the next generation according to specific wishes. Trusts are essential in estate planning; however, due to their complexity, obtaining professional advice before setting one up is vital.

Why consider a trust?

Imagine you want to leave your estate to your grandchildren, but they are still young adults. Would they handle sudden financial freedom responsibly, or might they lack foresight and spend it unwisely? Alternatively, you may have nieces and nephews, but you’re unsure how to distribute your wealth fairly.

A trust helps address concerns like these by allowing you to decide how and when your beneficiaries access their inheritance. Whether it’s providing for education, managing wealth for those who cannot handle large sums, or supporting future generations, trusts offer customisable solutions to suit individual circumstances.

The many forms and purposes of trusts

Trusts have been utilised for centuries and serve various functions. They can distribute gifts gradually over time or safeguard wealth for beneficiaries who may face difficulties, such as being too young, lacking financial knowledge or encountering external risks like unstable personal relationships.

For some, using a trust reflects broader family strategies, such as safeguarding assets against specific risks like gambling issues or external influences. Additionally, in jurisdictions where tax laws differ, trusts can have varying tax implications, making expert advice essential for effective planning.

Defining a trust

At its core, a trust creates a legal relationship among three parties. The ‘settlor’ transfers their assets into a trust and specifies their wishes. The ‘trustee’, often a professional like a lawyer, manages the trust according to these instructions. Lastly, there is the ‘beneficiary’, who receives the trust’s assets at the appropriate time and for its intended purpose.

Choosing a trustee is a crucial decision because they must act in the best interests of the beneficiaries. This often involves overseeing complex financial matters and managing practical responsibilities. Professional trustees bring neutrality and expertise to the role, ensuring the trust operates smoothly and accurately reflects the settlor’s intentions.

When outright gifts aren’t the right fit

Sometimes, giving money directly isn’t the best option. A trust enables you to retain control over your assets even after transferring them. You may prefer to distribute funds gradually or tie the disbursement to specific milestones, such as paying university fees or contributing to a house deposit.
Some families also use trusts when one or more beneficiaries might struggle to manage money due to personal challenges or incapacities. By structuring the trust carefully, it’s possible to ensure that funds are protected and distributed to support the intended recipient at the right time.

A means to protect wealth

Family dynamics and external influences can sometimes jeopardise financial security. For instance, a beneficiary might lead a high-risk lifestyle or be swayed by an unreliable partner. A trust acts as a safeguard, imposing conditions on how and when wealth can be accessed whilst providing protection through agreements set out by the settlor.

Charitable trusts are another option for those wishing to leave a lasting legacy. They ensure that funds benefit chosen causes for many years to come, rather than just a one-time donation.

If that sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Research shows that 26% of couples keep separate bank accounts[1], which means nearly 8.7 million people are navigating life without a clear plan for their shared financial future[2]. While it may work for a while, avoiding serious financial discussions can lead to miscommunication, tension and even future issues.

The good news? By taking simple, practical steps, you can move beyond the financial situationship stage into a healthier, more supportive financial partnership.

Why couples tend to avoid financial transparency

You probably know your partner’s favourite film or their order at your regular coffee shop, but do you know how much they have set aside for retirement? Or how they plan to pay off their credit card debt? If not, you’re not alone.

The research shows that while 78% of couples are aware of their partner’s monthly income and 75% know the basics, such as mortgage or rent costs, only a small number engage in more in-depth conversations. Specifically, 36% are unaware of their partner’s pension savings, 25% are uninformed about investments and nearly one in five couples (18%) have never discussed retirement.

Why? Often, couples find financial conversations intimidating. Money can feel personal; discussing salaries, debts or spending habits might trigger feelings of vulnerability or judgement. For some, finances seem like a ‘later’ problem, something that doesn’t need addressing until major life events occur, such as buying a home, getting married or starting a family.

But here’s the consideration: the longer couples avoid these discussions, the more difficult they become.

Risks of staying in a financial situationship

There’s comfort in keeping finances separate. It can feel independent, fair or just less complicated.

But over time, refusing to create shared financial goals can lead to challenges such as:

Mismatched priorities – One partner may focus on immediate needs, such as paying off debt, while the other prioritises saving for a big purchase. Without alignment, resentment can grow.
Unpreparedness for life events – Whether it’s unexpected medical bills or retirement planning, avoiding long-term discussions leaves couples vulnerable to financial shocks.
Eroded trust – When money decisions are made in isolation, it’s easier for trust issues to creep in, even unintentionally.

The main issue? You might find yourself financially unready for later life, which could cause stress in a relationship if it’s too late to adjust plans.

How to transition to a strong financial partnership

The key to moving beyond a financial situationship isn’t merging bank accounts; it’s fostering open conversations and trust. Here are some practical steps to help you and your partner work as a financial team.

Choose the right moment

Timing is essential when talking about finances. A conversation about savings or pension plans won’t succeed during a late-night argument or after a long, stressful day.

Instead, proactively choose a time when you’re both relaxed and receptive to dialogue. Frame the conversation as a team effort, recognising that financial discussions can be challenging but are vital for your future together.

For example, suggest this approach:

How about we set aside an hour on Sunday afternoon to discuss our finances? I’d love for us to be on the same page about future plans.

Create a regular money check-in routine

Talking about money shouldn’t be a one-off event. Regular, smaller conversations are much easier and less daunting than trying to address everything at once.

Schedule a recurring ‘money date’ every month or two to review budgets, savings goals, debt repayments or future plans. You might even make it enjoyable by adding snacks, coffee or wine, turning it into a positive experience rather than a dreaded chore.

Here’s a suggested format for your check-in:

Start with a review of recent expenses.
Discuss upcoming financial goals (e.g., saving for a holiday).
Highlight any adjustments to your individual or joint plan.

Consistency in these meetings will help build financial transparency and reduce surprises.

Reframe your financial mindset

Stop seeing money as ‘yours’ and ‘mine’ – begin thinking in terms of ‘ours’. Of course, you can still keep separate accounts if you wish, but working as a financial team encourages trust and responsibility.

For example, take turns discussing your own financial goals. This might involve paying off a student loan, building an emergency fund or saving for retirement. Prioritising shared goals strengthens the partnership and makes sure both individuals feel equally committed to the future.
Being honest about any fears or anxieties you have regarding money is also helpful. Showing vulnerability can encourage your partner to open up as well, leading to conversations that feel constructive instead of stressful.

Addressing financial tensions

If you’ve avoided discussing money, it’s natural to feel tense when you start talking about finances more openly. According to the research, one in five couples regularly argue about money, while 17% avoid the subject altogether.

The solution? Start with small steps. If the idea of joint financial planning feels daunting, begin by agreeing on one area first, like dividing bills fairly. Then, gradually move towards long-term objectives such as pooling resources for a home, planning for retirement or saving together in a joint account. Gradually, these efforts help break the cycle of miscommunication and build trust.

Building financial harmony together

Breaking free from a financial situationship doesn’t mean you need a perfect financial plan by tomorrow. It’s all about building a foundation of open communication and partnership. Start by honestly discussing your current habits and future goals. Whether the aim is managing debt, buying a first home or saving for a dream retirement, knowing you’re working together fosters a sense of stability and shared purpose.

If you’re unsure where to start or feel overwhelmed, we can help you clarify your financial goals so they align without turning the discussion into a complex or confusing one. The bottom line? Begin the conversation. Addressing your finances together not only strengthens your relationship but also ensures both partners are better prepared for whatever life might bring.

Source data:

[1] Research conducted on behalf of L&G by Opinium from 9–17 July 2025 among 3,000 UK adults in a relationship, weighted to be nationally
representative.
[2] 26% are defined as being in a financial situationship (those in a long term relationship of 2+ years AND who either manage their finances
together but keep them separate OR manage finances completely separately). 54,196,443 UK adults of which 63% are in a relationship =
34,241,484 in a relationship in the UK. 26% of 34,241,484 = 8,757,000 UK adults in a financial situationship.

This article does not constitute tax, legal or financial advice and should not be relied upon as such. Tax treatment depends on the individual circumstances of each client and may be subject to change in the future. For guidance, seek professional advice. The value of your investments can go down as well as up, and you may get back less than you invested. Past performance is not a guarantee of future performance.

As a grandparent, providing financial support can be more tax-efficient than helping through the child’s parents due to potential tax implications. By exploring optimal savings and investment options, you could maximise the impact of your generosity.

Building a foundation with a Junior ISA

A Junior Individual Savings Account (Junior ISA or JISA) is often the first step in securing financial stability for grandchildren. These accounts provide tax-free growth, meaning that any interest or gains are not liable for Capital Gains Tax (CGT).

Contributions of up to an annual limit of £9,000 are allowed (2025/26), and the funds become accessible once your grandchild turns 18. It is important to note that children born before 3 January 2011 with child trust funds (CTF) can’t have a JISA opened unless the CTF funds are transferred to a JISA, and the CTF is closed.

Planning for the long term with a Junior SIPP

For grandparents looking to help secure a grandchild’s long-term financial future, a Junior Self-Invested Personal Pension (Junior SIPP) could be a suitable choice. Designed explicitly as a retirement savings scheme, it allows you to invest up to £2,880 each year (2025/26), with the government offering 20% tax relief, increasing the total contribution to £3,600.

Although funds in a Junior SIPP are locked in until at least the age of 57, starting early enables decades for potential compound growth. This foresight could lead to a substantial retirement fund, offering your grandchild the financial security they might need later in life.

Helping them save for life’s milestones

When your grandchild turns 18, a Lifetime ISA (LISA) is an option to assist them in saving for their first home or planning for retirement. Each year, they can currently contribute up to £4,000, with the government providing a 25% bonus on these deposits, which can amount to up to £1,000 annually.

LISAs are particularly helpful for first-time home buyers, as funds can be accessed before age 60 for property purchases (a 25% charge applies if withdrawn before 60 for any other reason). If the savings remain untouched until age 60, the account becomes a tax-free boost for retirement. Offering this option provides flexibility for your grandchild’s medium- or long-term financial needs.

Minimising Inheritance Tax through gifting

One of the most effective ways to support your grandchildren is by minimising your estate’s exposure to IHT. Using your current annual gifting allowance of up to £3,000, or arranging regular gifts from surplus income, ensures these gifts stay exempt from IHT. Alternatively, to maintain control and safeguard the funds, grandparents might consider setting up trusts.

We’re excited to announce that we’ll be hosting a special client webinar on Thursday 11th December at 10:00am.

This session will give you valuable insights into how our investment portfolios have performed over the past 12 months, as well as a forward-looking view on what we can expect as we move into 2026.

We’ll be joined by two highly-respected experts:

George Cliff is Co-Chief Investment Officer and Director of Research at Clever. With over 11 years of experience in investment strategy and research, George will be reviewing performance of the portfolios over the last year.

Nathan Sweeney is the Chief Investment Officer of Multi-Asset Solutions at Marlborough with more than 25 years’ investment experience. Nathan will be sharing his economic outlook for 2026 and beyond.

Please mark the date in your diary – full registration details and joining instructions will follow shortly.

We hope you can join us for what promises to be a highly informative and engaging session.

This amount increases each year through the ‘triple lock’ system, which considers earnings, inflation or 2.5%, whichever is highest. Even those with private pensions often rely on the State Pension for extra security. For couples where both partners are eligible, the impact is even greater, potentially making a significant contribution to household finances.

Your entitlement depends on key factors

However, not everyone receives the full State Pension. Factors such as whether you were contracted out of the additional State Pension before 2016, whether you paid into the additional State Pension scheme and the number of qualifying National Insurance (NI) years all affect your entitlement.

To secure the full amount, you need at least 35 years of NI contributions. If your contributions are between 10 and 34 years, you will receive a proportion. There are many reasons why people might not meet the threshold, such as taking a career break to care for children or working abroad. The good news is that you can make voluntary payments to replace missing contributions.

Filling the gaps in your contribution history

Voluntary NI contributions help you fill gaps and boost your State Pension. For the 2025/26 tax year, the cost to fill one missing year is £923. Paying even for one gap can bring significant benefits; it usually increases your annual State Pension by 1/35th of the full amount. This roughly equals £342 per year based on current figures.

Generally, you can only fill gaps from the past six years. For example, in the 2025/26 tax year, you could address gaps dating back to the 2019/20 tax year. Before making any payments, it’s important to check whether you are eligible and if it is financially sensible.

Checking your State Pension forecast

The initial step to understanding your entitlement is to obtain a State Pension forecast. You can do this quickly and easily online via the Government Gateway. Your forecast will display your expected pension, any shortfalls in your contributions and the cost of making up these shortfalls.

Some people may mistakenly assume they will automatically receive the full amount or forget to check their forecast altogether. Overlooking it can result in receiving less financial support than expected. This mistake is especially common among parents who have taken time off work to raise children, believing their NI contributions are being credited automatically.

Unclaimed credits for stay-at-home parents

From 1978/79 to 2009/10, stay-at-home parents could benefit from Home Responsibilities Protection (HRP) if they claimed Child Benefit. This scheme was replaced in 2010/11 by National Insurance credits. Unfortunately, data inaccuracies have led to many eligible parents not receiving the necessary credits.

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) identified this issue through research carried out in 2011 and 2022. If you were a stay-at-home parent during this period and missed your credits, the government has announced plans to address the problem. Starting in April 2026, parents will have the opportunity to claim NICs even if they did not previously apply for Child Benefit.

Protecting spouse contributions in high-income households

Spouses in households with a high-income earner might choose not to claim Child Benefit due to tax implications. However, claiming this benefit is important to ensure their NI credits, and there is the choice of not receiving the actual child benefit payments. This highlights the importance of reviewing your pension forecast, especially if your family includes a stay-at-home parent.

The legislative updates in April 2026 are vital for couples in this situation. By claiming missed credits, individuals can protect their rightful State Pension entitlements, preventing financial shortfalls in retirement.

Taking a more holistic approach to retirement

Although the State Pension alone might not provide enough income for some, maximising your entitlement is a vital part of broader retirement planning. Combining the State Pension with workplace or private schemes creates a stronger financial safety net. By addressing any gaps early and utilising mechanisms like voluntary NI contributions, you can achieve greater peace of mind as you approach retirement.

Current market conditions, sluggish economic growth, persistent inflation and rising unemployment have put significant pressure on public spending. Although there have been calls for a wealth tax, the government is reportedly considering the less politically sensitive option of reforming IHT thresholds.

Potential gifting caps under consideration

One option being considered is the introduction of a lifetime cap on tax-free gifts. Currently, individuals can pass on assets without tax if these gifts are made at least seven years before their death. Gifts made between three and seven years prior that are above the donor’s nil rate band are taxed on a sliding scale on the excess above the nil rate band, with rates decreasing annually from 32% to 8% in what’s known as ‘taper relief’.

By implementing a cap, the government could restrict the total value of assets or monetary gifts exempt from IHT rules, regardless of when they are given. This would represent a significant shift in policy and could impact taxpayers involved in long-term estate planning. Other aspects of the gifting framework, including the taper rate itself, are also reportedly being reviewed.

Baby boomers’ wealth transfers under scrutiny

Alongside organisational reforms, focus is shifting to the vast intergenerational wealth expected to pass from baby boomers. Increasing property prices, substantial pension pots and accumulated wealth have created a financial landscape the Treasury doesn’t want to overlook.

Last year signalled an early indication of the government’s plans to align pensions with IHT. From April 2027, unused pension funds and most death benefits will be incorporated into the IHT regime, ensuring these assets contribute to government revenue during the largest generational transfer of wealth in history.

Public sentiment and next steps

If such reforms are implemented, they are likely to spark debate across the political spectrum. While they may succeed in bolstering public finances, concerns over fairness and the potential impact on middle-income families loom large. Conversely, measures specifically targeting ultra-wealthy estates and large-scale gifts could potentially gain broader public acceptance.

The Treasury has not yet confirmed any decision, but it is clear that no revenue-raising strategy is being ruled out. With the Autumn Budget just around the corner, taxpayers would do well to stay informed about potential changes that may impact their estate planning efforts.

This article does not constitute tax, legal or financial advice and should not be relied upon as such. Tax treatment depends on the individual circumstances of each client and may be subject to change in the future. For guidance, seek professional advice. The value of your investments can go down as well as up, and you may get back less than you invested. The Financial Conduct Authority does not regulate estate planning, tax advice or trusts.