Our Services

Estate planning

Death is a prospect not many of us like to dwell on. The thought is also unpleasant that we may not have made adequate provision for dependants, family and friends who will survive us. Whilst death is unavoidable, there are options to dispose of your estate in ways which reduce or eliminate inheritance taxes. In all cases it is better to plan well in advance, especially since the legislation which governs the passing of your property to the chosen beneficiaries includes time limits for relief.

As few of us can predict when we shall die, it is essential that any plans are implemented sooner rather than later. The earlier you make arrangements for the disposal of your estate, the greater is the opportunity to maximise the amount passed on and reduce the amount liable to tax. Few enjoy the prospect that a substantial amount of the wealth they have worked hard to accumulate will be taken from their estate by the Chancellor.

When planning to transfer your estate, it is important to strike a balance between the needs of yourself and your spouse now and in the future, and the needs of your beneficiaries after you die. This requires experience, skill and foresight coupled with a detailed knowledge of the tax regime. R A Clement Associates have assisted many people with a discrete estate planning service which includes:

• Help when drawing-up or reviewing your will
  
• Making full use of exemptions and lower tax rates on lifetime transfers
  
• Optimising lifetime transfers between spouses
  
• Transferring agricultural or business property
  
• Transferring assets into trust
  
• Arranging adequate life assurance to cover potential inheritance tax liabilities

If you are considering making a will, we strongly advise you to begin your estate planning by contacting us for a preliminary review.