Neil MacGillivray: Cutting through the complexity of additional permitted subscriptions

'Complex theory'

clock • 3 min read

In his latest column for Professional Adviser, tax expert Neil MacGillivray looks at ISA subscription limits for surviving spouses and civil partners and tries to make a complex tax situation a little bit more approachable

Most will be familiar with the tax planning opportunity that arises when one spouse or civil partner dies, and the surviving partner (the survivor) can make an additional permitted individual savings account (ISA) subscription. That said, it's clear from many of the enquiries I receive, particularly where there has been significant stock market movement up until the additional subscription is made, that putting theory into practice isn't as straightforward as it may seem. A survivor, provided they were deemed to have been living with their spouse or civil partner at the date of death, is...

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

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
Quashed 'family farm tax' rumours branded 'cruel'

Quashed 'family farm tax' rumours branded 'cruel'

Reports had suggested government was mulling IHT relief tweaks

Jen Frost
clock 21 October 2025 • 2 min read
More than 40 MPs back wealth tax early day motion

More than 40 MPs back wealth tax early day motion

Including Diane Abbott, John McDonnell and Clive Lewis

Jen Frost
clock 21 October 2025 • 2 min read