(SMT) Money Matters Ltd, 2 Highams Hill, Gossops Green, Crawley, West Sussex RH11 8BS.
(SMT) Money Matters Ltd is registered in England & Wales no. 5934639. Registered office: as above.
(SMT) Money Matters Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.
The information contained within the website is subject to the UK regulatory regime and is therefore primarily targeted at customers in the UK
Estate Planning: Wills, Trusts & Powers of Attorney


We understand that Financial Planning and Estate Planning go hand in hand, and we have proved that it doesn't have to be complicated. Just ask yourself three simple questions. Who do you trust to make important decisions? Who are you working hard to provide for? And do you like paying too much tax? Answer these three questions and you are already well on the way to putting your personal and financial affairs in order.

The first thing you should know is that completing a Will is the only way to ensure that your estate and possessions will be distributed in accordance to your wishes. This simple document will appoint your trustees, executors and guardians for your children. It will also allow you the opportunity to make gifts and donations, and let you have a say as to how your final farewell should be.

Until that day comes however, you should also consider who would manage your financial affairs in the unfortunate event that, through injury, illness or age-related incapacity, you are unable to make important decisions yourself. A
Lasting Power of Attorney would allow you to nominate those you trust to manage your affairs on your behalf. Many people are unaware that, in the absence of this document, the Court of Protection will initially assume responsibility for all of your financial affairs. Should you wish to nominate someone whose judgement you trust, you need a Power of Attorney.

There are also countless benefits to setting up a
Trust. Whether you want to leave a legacy for your loved ones, potentially shelter your assets from taxation or wish to ensure your loved ones are financially secure, you may wish to consider a trust. Similarly, those with a complex family structure or anyone who is responsible for a vulnerable person should also give trusts careful consideration. Even if you have a life assurance or a pension plan you should consider putting the plan into trust. This way, the proceeds of your policy will go to your loved ones.

So, the stakes are high and the benefits are endless. During our consultation, we will review your circumstances, discuss your wishes and establish which methods of estate planning are right for you. All will be discussed in plain English and we will do all we can to make the process as smooth as possible.

For more information, please give us a call or go to www.smtwillstrustsandprobate.co.uk

The Financial Conduct Authority does not regulate will writing and taxation and trust advice.