Ben Williams Financial Planning

20/04/2026

This is a great read for anyone looking to build stronger financial foundations.

Focusing on something as practical as emergency savings, the article breaks down how simple, structured conversations around money can help people feel more confident and prepared for the unexpected ➡ very much aligned with how we support our clients every day.

By turning complex financial topics into clear, actionable guidance, it highlights the real value of financial education in helping people make informed decisions.

Well worth a read for anyone looking to take greater control of their financial future.

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One in five have less than £1,000 in emergency savings, leaving them vulnerable to unexpected costs. How much should you have in your rainy day fund?

17/04/2026

Lifetime Financial Planning starts with a simple idea..... listening first.

Taking the time to truly understand what matters most - your values, your priorities and the life you want to create.

Because it’s never just about numbers on a page.

It’s about the people, experiences, and sense of security those numbers are meant to support.

At the heart of it all is one powerful question - what is enough?

- Enough to support the people you love
- Enough to create opportunities and meaningful experiences
- Enough to make a difference beyond yourself
- Enough to feel calm, secure, and in control of your future

When we take the time to define “enough,” financial planning becomes something more intentional.

It shifts from simply accumulating wealth to creating clarity, confidence and a deeper sense of purpose.

The result is a plan built not just for growth, but for balance, fulfilment, and lasting peace of mind.

Have you thought about what enough look like for you?

15/04/2026

When we think about financial planning, we often focus on savings, investments, pensions, and so on, but what’s often overlooked is protecting what you already have.

𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐭𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐩𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 isn’t just about insurance policies; it’s about building financial resilience.

It’s about making sure that if life throws the unexpected your way - illness, loss of income, or worse - you and your family aren’t left exposed.

Over the next few weeks, we’ll be breaking down the different types of protection, why they matter, and the key questions you should be asking to ensure you’re properly covered.

Because when it comes to your income, health and loved ones, one of the smartest moves you can make is to protect them 🛡️

07/04/2026

The new tax year started on 6 April 2026, and it brings several important updates affecting employees, employers, business owners, investors, and the self-employed.

Here are the headline changes to be aware of 👇

𝐈𝐧𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐞 𝐓𝐚𝐱
The Personal Allowance remains frozen at £12,570 until at least 2031. While rates haven’t changed, frozen thresholds mean more people may be pulled into higher tax bands as salaries rise.

𝐍𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐈𝐧𝐬𝐮𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞
NIC thresholds and rates are largely unchanged:
- Employees: 8% between £12,570–£50,270, then 2%
- Self-employed (Class 4): 6% then 2%
- Employers: 15% on earnings above £5,000

𝐈𝐧𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐓𝐚𝐱
A significant update for farmers and business owners:
- 100% Agricultural & Business Relief now capped at £2.5m per individual
- Assets above this receive 50% relief
- Nil-rate band remains frozen at £325,000 until 2031

𝐃𝐢𝐯𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐬, 𝐒𝐚𝐯𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬 & 𝐂𝐆𝐓
Key changes for investors:
- Dividend allowance remains £500
- Dividend tax rises to:
- 10.75% basic rate
- 35.75% higher rate
- CGT annual exemption remains £3,000
- ISA limit stays £20,000 for 2026/27

𝐇𝐨𝐦𝐞 𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐑𝐞𝐥𝐢𝐞𝐟
One major shift for employees:
- Employers can still reimburse home-working costs tax-free
- But employees can no longer personally claim HMRC tax relief if their employer doesn’t reimburse them

The biggest theme this year is clear - more frozen thresholds, tighter reliefs and fewer personal claims.

For business leaders, finance teams, and employees alike, this is a good time to review payroll, tax planning, investment structures, and employee benefits 💡