Protecting your legacy and boosting your children’s financial security
Discussing finances can evoke anxiety or discomfort, and this tension doesn’t ease when family members are involved. Nevertheless, parents of adult children are responsible for discussing their financial future—particularly retirement and estate planning. Doing so ensures their children can provide support or fulfil their wishes as needed.
Money, or lack thereof, a significant driver of overall retirement satisfaction
Given the ongoing economic pressures of rising living costs, over 55s were asked how they find the overall retirement experience. The research found that four in five (79%) of over 55s who have retired did so without the help of financial guidance or advice, preferring to opt for a DIY approach to managing their finances[1].
How much income will you need for a comfortable retirement?
Almost a quarter (23%) of women in their 20s (aged 22-29 years) would be frustrated if they couldn’t retire by the age of 60, according to new research[1]. Despite this, 10% of this group have opted out of their employer’s pension scheme, further risking their chances of retiring when they plan to.
What payments can you expect to receive from the government later in life?
In April 2024, the state pension rose by 8.5% to £11,502.40 a year for post-2016 retirees. However, according to new research[1], one in seven (14%) retirees receive less money from the state pension than expected. This highlights the need for more information about the payments people can expect to receive from the government later in life.
Why the concept of a ‘hard stop’ retirement is becoming less prevalent
New research reveals that more than a quarter (28%) of individuals aged 25 to 54 do not foresee a complete retirement in their future[1]. This suggests the concept of a ‘hard stop’ retirement is becoming less prevalent among those considered to be in their prime working years. This emerging trend reflects a significant shift in how modern workers approach their career trajectories and financial planning.
What you need to know to avoid discrepancies and potential financial strain
According to research[1], almost a third of UK adults who have checked their tax code (31%) have found that they have been on the wrong one at some point. Additionally, one in six (15%) UK adults do not know if they are on the right tax code.
Sharing values and encouraging children to formulate their own
Having a conversation with children about money early on helps them to build financial confidence and learn foundational principles that will be useful for years to come. It also allows parents to share their financial values and wishes. We look at some practical ways this can be done at different stages of childhood.
Nearly 40% support grown-up children, a spouse or partner, a parent, an elderly relative, or a friend
When times are hard, it makes sense that families will look for ways to support each other emotionally and financially. And if you’re one of the many retirees supporting family and friends financially, you’re not alone.
Research highlights what people consider before making the decision
Data has revealed that while a third of over-45s (29%) say they have plans to downsize in the next five years, just 13% of over-75s have actually made the move[1]. As people assess their retirement finances, the research highlights the ideal age to downsize is 66. However, ties to the community, their homes, and the security it brings mean that most people choose not to proceed.
How much money will you have for retirement, where it’s invested, and what are you being charged?
According to new research[1], just two-fifths (42%) of the UK population know how to contribute more to their pension. The study also found that a quarter of those with multiple pots would not know where to start consolidating multiple pension pots accrued throughout their working life.
