Demand for financial planning advice was strongly up in the first half of the year. Pensions and investments remain strongest drivers, but greatest growth was in demand for mortgage advice.

Inheritance Tax can apply at 40% to portions of your wealth you intend for your children. IHT is one of the most lucrative taxes for the Revenue, as it applies at 40% to all liable assets. However, it is also one of the most avoidable of taxes, with good financial planning. Read how here – click on the headline above.

Did you know that if your spouse is not working, they still have a tax-free allowance you can use as part of your financial planning? In a few simple steps, you can make up to £6,475 of income from your savings or investments tax-free. Who said marriage had to be taxing? Read More
Personal relationships are the most valued part of taking financial advice for most consumers, according to Aviva. This bond of trust makes existing customers the best source of new business for advisers.

The Office of Fair Trading is to look at consumer protection in relation to shopping online. One implication is the importance of unbiased financial advice and guidance on complex financial products, insurances and investments. Read More
Cuts and increases in tax and VAT in the June 2010 Budget will cost families £3,000 over the next 4 years, including £1,100 in 2011 alone, says economics watchdog Capital Economics.
Those who go online for independent financial advice are most concerned with pensions and retirement. Second most popular choices are savings and investments, with mortgages taking only 3rd place in a lukewarm climate for lending

The urgency of forward planning and saving for children is back in the spotlight, as a new report from the Family & Parenting Institute puts the cost of raising a child at £800 a month Read More

Internet searches for financial planning advice were up 19% in 2009, with queries on investments and ISAs the main drivers of growth, says Google. Read More
In a gender analysis of the June 2010 budget, Shadow Welfare Secretary Yvette Cooper claims that 70% of tax cuts will hit women only.
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