IFAs concerned over proposed pension death benefits tax rule changes

IFAs cite ‘impact on clients’ financial plans’ as reason for apprehension

Sahar Nazir
clock • 2 min read

The majority of IFAs are apprehensive about potential alterations to pension death benefits tax rules proposed by the government as it will “impact clients’ financial plans”, according to Standard Life.

Just over one in ten advisers have expressed support for the changes. This is according to a study conducted among 207 IFAs from 10 to 15 August 2023. Currently, if a pension owner passes away before the age of 75, their pension is passed on tax-free to nominated beneficiaries. If the pension owner is older at the time of their passing, the pension is taxed at the beneficiaries' marginal rate. However, the proposed alterations would require nominated beneficiaries to receive the pension either as a lump sum outside of a pension wrapper or as an income, taxable at their marginal rate. ...

To continue reading this article...

Join Professional Adviser for free

  • Unlimited access to real-time news, industry insights and market intelligence
  • Stay ahead of the curve with spotlights on emerging trends and technologies
  • Receive breaking news stories straight to your inbox in the daily newsletters
  • Make smart business decisions with the latest developments in regulation, investing retirement and protection
  • Members-only access to the editor’s weekly Friday commentary
  • Be the first to hear about our events and awards programmes

Join

 

Already a Professional Adviser member?

Login

More on Your profession

Advisers remain optimistic despite uncertainty

Advisers remain optimistic despite uncertainty

Natixis Investment Managers’ 2026 Finance Adviser’s survey finds

Sophia Panayi
clock 24 June 2026 • 4 min read
Financial adviser jailed for 11 years after £2m fraud

Financial adviser jailed for 11 years after £2m fraud

Timothy ‘Paul’ Barnes defrauded acquaintances, clients and a charity

Jen Frost
clock 23 June 2026 • 2 min read
Deputy editor's view: A Skilled Person Review sparks headlines

Deputy editor's view: A Skilled Person Review sparks headlines

The deputy editor's Friday Night Takeaway from 19 June

Jenna Brown
clock 22 June 2026 • 2 min read