Unnecessary punishment: Ill-health pension transfers risk IHT trap

IHT technicality could hit people with impaired life expectancy

clock

Jon Greer can see IHT trouble ahead. Here he assesses the potential impact of death within two years of a pension transfer...

Registered pension schemes are currently among the most attractive vehicles for personal savings, principally due to the tax reliefs provided on the way in, and the death benefits available on the ‘way out'. The mantra of 'spend your pension last' is largely based on these principles, and having your money in the most tax-efficient wrapper at all times is one of the key attractions of seeking financial advice. However, in some instances, actions taken to improve the efficiency of pension savings, particularly in the case of ill-health, could lead to some unintended repercussions. I...

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 Tax planning

The 'stark' impact of tax and pensions changes on special needs families

The 'stark' impact of tax and pensions changes on special needs families

Among hardest hit by ‘poorly consulted’ reforms

Jen Frost
clock 27 October 2025 • 8 min read
Former BoE governor Lord King slams potential 'mansion tax' proposal – report

Former BoE governor Lord King slams potential 'mansion tax' proposal – report

The potential property tax ‘not a coherent tax strategy’

Isabel Baxter
clock 27 October 2025 • 2 min read
Chancellor urged to tackle IHT 'flaw' for infected blood scandal compensation payments

Chancellor urged to tackle IHT 'flaw' for infected blood scandal compensation payments

HMRC slammed for having ‘no level of urgency’

Jen Frost
clock 22 October 2025 • 4 min read