For many, this period arrives faster than expected, and those who prepare early tend to make the most of the remaining opportunities available for the year, like ensuring annual allowances and contributions are not wasted before the deadlines.
Several valuable allowances reset each tax year, and many operate on a strict “use it or lose it” basis. The ISA allowance is a good example. As confirmed in the recent Autumn Budget, each adult can currently invest up to £20,000 in an ISA. However, from 6th April 2027, the Cash ISA limit for savers under 65 will reduce from £20,000 to £12,000. If you’re thinking about topping up – or starting an ISA for the first time – now is the ideal moment to get this in place.
Pensions deserve just as much attention. Many people can take advantage of the “carry forward” rules, which can allow you to use any unused pension allowances from the previous three tax years depending on your income. After 5th April, one full year of potential tax efficient saving is lost. If you’re a higher-rate tax payer, it’s also worth checking that you’ve claimed the extra tax relief you’re entitled to. Surprisingly, this is often overlooked because many assume it happens automatically.
I also see people regularly overlook the annual gifting allowances they are entitled to. Some gifts can be carried back a year, but not indefinitely, so families wanting to support children or grandchildren may want to take action sooner rather than later to make the most of available reliefs and create certainty. For clients who are comfortable with higher-risk planning, Venture Capital Trusts (VCTs) and the Enterprise Investment Scheme (EIS) remain powerful tax-planning tools. However, they often require early application due to availability and processing times, so they’re worth reviewing now if suitable. Leaving planning too late can limit options, and place avoidable financial pressure on the next generation.
After a strong year of investment performance for many, Capital Gains Tax (CGT) is becoming a more frequent discussion point. With the annual exemption having reduced in recent years, more people may find themselves facing an unnecessary CGT bill.
All of these considerations share one common theme: acting early gives you more choice and greater opportunities. As we head into the New Year, it’s an ideal moment to review your finances before the usual March rush arrives. A simple conversation now could save a great deal of pressure later – and often leads to feeling in control of your finances, creating peace of mind for the year ahead.
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