Key Takeaways from HSC’s Estate Planning Webinar
HSC Financial Advisers recently hosted the second instalment of our ongoing educational webinar series, this time focusing on one of the most important yet often overlooked areas of personal planning: Wills, Trusts and Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPAs).
Led by Jonathan Sidlin, Managing Director at HSC Financial Advisers, and Amy Peters, a highly experienced Wills and LPA specialist from the Beneficial Wills Company, the session offered vital insights into why estate planning is essential for individuals and families at every stage of life.
Why Estate Planning Matters More Than Ever
Despite its importance, a significant number of people remain unprepared, with 60% of adults still without a will and billions lost each year to avoidable inheritance tax. With rising property prices, changes to pension rules and increasing delays in the probate process, the need for proper planning has never been more urgent.
Some key points discussed during the webinar included:
Inheritance Tax (IHT) exposure is growing. More estates are falling into the IHT net due to increases in property values, with the standard rate at 40% above the tax-free thresholds.
Pension and tax rules are changing. Jonathan highlighted upcoming changes expected in 2027 that will affect how pensions are treated for IHT purposes.
Probate delays are now common. Without proper preparation, probate can take 18 months to two years, particularly where there is no will.
LPAs take time to register. With a current waiting time of 16 weeks or more, planning ahead is essential.
The Importance of Professional Advice
A consistent message from both speakers was clear: this is not an area to tackle alone.
Amy emphasised that DIY wills, templates and even AI-generated documents often contain errors or invalid clauses. With more than 55,000 LPA applications rejected each year, professional guidance is essential to ensure documents are drafted correctly and comply with legal requirements.
Jonathan also highlighted the financial complexities that come with estate planning, particularly around inheritance tax, pensions, property ownership and the impact of future legislative changes. Combining specialist legal and financial advice ensures your wishes are protected and that your estate is structured efficiently.
Estate planning is not a one-off exercise, and both professionals reinforced the importance of regular reviews, especially after major life events such as marriage, property purchases or changes within the family.
HSC’s Educational Webinar Series Continues
This webinar is part of HSC’s commitment to providing clear and accessible financial education to our clients and the wider community. We are pleased to confirm that our webinar series will continue into the new year, covering more life relevant topics and financial issues, particularly as the post-budget landscape develops.
Whether you are starting from scratch or reviewing existing arrangements, these sessions are designed to give you the knowledge and confidence to make informed decisions.
Get in touch with HSC Financial Advisers today to learn more about upcoming webinars and to begin your estate planning journey with the support of trusted professionals.
Your future deserves careful planning, and we are here to help you every step of the way.