Bereavement Financial Advisors

Following a bereavement, financial matters can be complex and time-sensitive. A specialist financial adviser can help you navigate inheritance, pensions, investments, tax, and estate planning — ensuring you don't miss important deadlines or opportunities.

What a bereavement financial adviser can help with

  • Inheritance tax (IHT): Understanding whether IHT applies, calculating the liability, and exploring reliefs and exemptions
  • Pension death benefits: Claiming pension lump sums, death-in-service payments, and annuity reviews
  • Investment portfolios: Transferring, liquidating, or restructuring inherited investments
  • Life insurance claims: Navigating policy claims and nominations
  • Estate planning for survivors: Updating Wills, Lasting Powers of Attorney, and financial plans after a bereavement
  • Financial planning: Reviewing income, budgets, and long-term plans after a change in household circumstances

Country-specific considerations

England and Wales

Inheritance tax (IHT) applies at 40% on estates above the nil-rate band (currently £325,000, plus the residence nil-rate band of up to £175,000). Specialist advisers can help maximise reliefs, including agricultural and business property relief.

Scotland

Scotland has the same IHT rules as England and Wales, but different succession laws — including the right of prior rights and legal rights (legitim) which affect estate distribution regardless of the Will.

Northern Ireland

The same IHT framework applies. Local advisers familiar with Northern Irish property law and the Probate Office Belfast process are particularly valuable.

Finding a qualified adviser

BereaveGuide connects families with vetted, specialist financial advisers across the UK. Look for advisers who are:

  • Regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA)
  • Qualified to level 4 or above (Diploma in Financial Planning or equivalent)
  • Experienced in estate administration and bereavement
  • Members of professional bodies such as CISI, CII, or SOLLA (Society of Later Life Advisers)

Important deadlines to be aware of

  • IHT must typically be paid within 6 months of death to avoid interest charges
  • Probate must be applied for before the estate can be administered
  • Some pension death benefit nominations have strict time limits for claiming
  • A Deed of Variation must be completed within 2 years of death to redirect inheritance