Independent News – Summer 2026

With summer now with us, we’re pleased to share the latest edition of Kellands Independent News – Summer 2026.

Keeping on top of changes to pensions, taxation, investments and retirement planning has never been more important. In the latest edition of Independent News, our financial planning team explores a range of issues affecting individuals and families, from Inheritance Tax and estate planning to ISAs, retirement income and long-term investment strategies. Whether you’re looking to grow your wealth, protect your legacy or make informed financial decisions, you’ll find plenty of useful insights in this summer edition.

A major theme running through this edition is Inheritance Tax planning, particularly the significant changes coming to pensions from 6 April 2027. For many years, pensions have been one of the most tax-efficient ways to pass wealth to the next generation, as unused pension funds generally sat outside the estate for IHT purposes. That is about to change, with unspent pension pots potentially becoming subject to 40% IHT where estates exceed the relevant thresholds. Our feature on page 10 explains why this could fundamentally reshape retirement and estate planning strategies, and why early preparation is so important.

Another growing trend explored in this issue is “unretiring” – the increasing number of retirees returning to work, whether for financial reasons, personal fulfilment or social connection. Inflation and rising living costs have put pressure on retirement incomes, and many people are now rethinking what retirement looks like in practice. On page 8, we look at why flexible and phased retirement is becoming more common, and how proactive planning can help people maintain the lifestyle they want in later life.

For investors, the new tax year brings fresh opportunities to make the most of tax-efficient allowances. ISAs remain one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect investments from capital gains and dividend tax, with a £20,000 annual allowance available for 2026/27. Our article on page 12 highlights the benefits of starting contributions early in the tax year and maintaining a disciplined, long-term investment approach.

We also examine the recent dividend tax increases, with ordinary and upper dividend rates rising by two percentage points from April 2026. As allowances have been reduced and tax rates increased, structuring investments tax-efficiently has become more important than ever. Page 15 outlines practical strategies, including the use of ISAs, pensions and joint planning between spouses or civil partners.

Elsewhere in the newsletter, you’ll find articles covering long-term investing during volatile markets, Agricultural Property Relief changes, life insurance and Inheritance Tax, pension freedoms and enhanced annuities.

You can read or download the full newsletter using the link below. And as always, if any of the topics raised prompt questions about your own circumstances, our team is here to help with clear, tailored financial advice.

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