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

Offshore bonds explained - how they work and what clients they are suitable for

Offshore bonds explained - how they work and what clients they are suitable for

Resurgence in interest over the past few months

Laura Purkess
clock 24 February 2026 • 5 min read
Webinar: IHT on pensions – Advisers' questions answered

Webinar: IHT on pensions – Advisers' questions answered

Join us on 10 March 2026

Professional Adviser
clock 20 February 2026 • 1 min read
IHT receipts continue climb to £7.1bn

IHT receipts continue climb to £7.1bn

Experts note ‘fairly modest’ growth

Jen Frost
clock 20 February 2026 • 3 min read