Latest news and Articles

New Definition Of A Charity Is Set To Determine The Availability Of Tax Reliefs
We take a look at HMRC’s new definition of a charity and in particular what the ‘management condition’ means for charitable organisations.

Budget 2012 Digest
We identify and summarise some of the key changes introduced by the 2012 Budget which will affect individuals and their tax affairs.

Liechtenstein Disclosure Facility Extension
We take a look at the benefits of the Liechtenstein Disclosure Facility in view of HMRC’s recent decision to extend its application until 5 April 2016

An Encouragement to Charitable Giving
In his 2001 Budget, the Chancellor announced a package of measures to support philanthropy and encourage charitable giving by donors at all life stages. Here we examine the provisions for a reduced rate of inheritance tax for estates leaving 10% or more to charity

Brighter News for British Owners of French Property
A recent amendment by the French Parliament could have a positive outlook for many British owners of second homes in France.

Cohabitation Concerns
In view of the Government’s recent decision not to endorse the Law Commission’s recommendations for reform of cohabitation law, what steps can be taken by unmarried couples in order to protect their interests and avoid financial disadvantage?

Wedding Planning
The wedding of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge seems some while ago now, but more recently Zara Phillips married Mike Tindall in Edinburgh. What legal and tax issues should couples consider before tying the knot?

Pension Death Benefits - Keep it in the Family
A reduced rate of tax has been introduced for lump sum pension death benefits payable on death of a member aged 75 or over. This widens the options open for tax planning. Now is the time to review your arrangements.

Estate Planning: Impact of the Budget
“I want to make giving 10% of your legacy to charity the norm in our country” So said George Osborne in his Budget speech. The Government has announced that a reduced rate of inheritance tax (IHT) will apply where 10% or more of a deceased’s net estate is left to charity. In those cases the current 40% rate will be reduced to 36%. The new rate will apply where death occurs on or after 6 April 2012.

Planning for the Future
In this bulletin, we are going to highlight a few strategies that can be put in place when time allows it and emergency solutions for some of those issues which can come upon us without warning.