General Election 2017: How will it affect your personal finances?

Posted on by Dale Smith

The answer to that question depends on two things; the outcome of the election and how you react to the inevitable instability it will cause. At this early stage, the most likely outcome seems to be a Conservative victory, with an increased majority. At least that’s what a certain Mrs May, of Number 10 Downing Street, has gambled on. Logically, if this is the case, Mrs May, and the Chancellor Philip Hammond, will be emboldened to drive through changes to domestic policy, whilst negotiating Brexit. Of course, even if it looks unlikely…

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Are you eligible for Marriage Allowance?

Posted on by Dale Smith

No one likes to pay too much tax, so it is surprising that many people are not taking advantage of an important new tax break. Marriage Allowance is a tax concession that can save married couples, or those in civil partnerships, up to £220 each year in tax. HMRC estimates that around 4.2 million couples are eligible. But, less than a million are actually claiming it, despite a high-profile advertising campaign. Are you missing out? Marriage Allowance was introduced in 6th April 2016. It allows non-taxpayers to transfer £1,100 of their personal…

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A final chance to boost your State Pension

Posted on by Dale Smith

A potentially attractive government scheme, allowing some people to boost their state pension, by paying in a lump sum, closes in April. Time is running out, but there is still time to take advantage of the opportunity, if you act now. What is on offer? The Government has offered up to 12 million older people the chance to convert a lump sum into a guaranteed income for life, on terms significantly better than those available on the open market. The scheme involves making a ‘Class 3A National Insurance voluntary contribution’ and whilst the…

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