Liberty news

Pensions & IHT: the ‘double tax’ trap

21/10/2026 / St. James's Place News

For years, pensions have offered a valuable tax advantage alongside retirement income, enabling people to pass on wealth to the next generation. But from April 2027, changes to inheritance tax (IHT) rules could mean some families face a significantly larger tax bill than they expected. In some cases, beneficiaries may face both IHT and income tax on inherited pensions – this is known as the ‘double tax trap.’

The missing years: caring, career pauses & long-term planning

20/10/2026 / St. James's Place News

Figures show women are substantially more likely than men to take a career break during their working life. Whether it’s maternity leave, caring for young children, or looking after elderly family members, the responsibilities that lead to time out of paid work are more likely to impact women.

Latest news

The 2026 Autumn Budget – Breathing space?

Chancellor John Healey’s much awaited first Autumn Budget did much as expected – which was to announce a series of small fixes aimed at offsetting rising living costs. In the chancellor’s words, to offer millions some ‘breathing space’. There were also measures to support smaller businesses, and entrepreneurs, as well as small tax increases on savings and property income.

Pensions & IHT: the ‘double tax’ trap

For years, pensions have offered a valuable tax advantage alongside retirement income, enabling people to pass on wealth to the next generation. But from April 2027, changes to inheritance tax (IHT) rules could mean some families face a significantly larger tax bill than they expected. In some cases, beneficiaries may face both IHT and income tax on inherited pensions – this is known as the ‘double tax trap.’

The capital gains tax surprises that catch people out

The run-up to a Budget often prompts people to think about tax and their finances. While future tax policy remains uncertain, understanding the rules that apply today can help avoid costly surprises. Capital gains tax (CGT) is one area where unexpected bills can arise, particularly as allowances have reduced in recent years.

Healey’s growth agenda meets fiscal reality

In his first major speech, Chancellor John Healey today set out optimistic plans to drive economic growth across ‘every postcode’ in the UK. Taking a more positive approach than his predecessor, Healey said the UK was ‘turning a corner’, pointing to signs of growth and previous cuts to interest rates.

SpaceX and the billion-dollar indexing dilemma

SpaceX has become one of the largest companies on the planet. Yet despite its size, it currently doesn’t qualify for inclusion in the US’s flagship stock market index, the S&P 500. Why? All stock market indices have eligibility criteria which companies must meet in order to be listed on them.

We'd love to talk to you about our services and how we might help.

Book a meeting

Ask an adviser

Refer a friend