Drafting a will is a significant milestone in planning your legacy. It ensures your wishes are honoured and protects your loved ones from unnecessary stress. However, writing a will is not a one-time task. Life is unpredictable, and so are the events that can affect your estate and your intentions for it. Keeping your will up to date is as important as writing it in the first place.

Two recent UK court rulings underline the importance of having a clear, up-to-date will and highlight the potential complications when a will isn’t regularly reviewed.

 The UK government's proposed changes to Agricultural Property Relief (APR) in inheritance tax law have drawn significant attention, sparking both protests and discussions about their impact. Under the reforms, set to begin in April 2026, the 100% relief on agricultural and business property will apply only to the first £1 million of value. Property exceeding this limit will be taxed at 20%, a notable reduction from the standard 40% inheritance tax rate for other estates​.

When it comes to funding long-term care, Deferred Payment Agreements (DPAs) can be a practical solution for many families. These agreements, available through local authorities, allow individuals to defer their care home fees by securing them against their property, usually the family home. While DPAs can be helpful, they come with complexities that families need to understand before making a commitment. Here, Hilary Cragg, Solicitor and Partner at Nash & Co Solicitors, shares expert advice on avoiding common pitfalls with DPAs and provides guidance to help families make informed decisions.

When planning for long-term care, many families face difficult financial decisions. Two of the most common options are Deferred Payment Agreements (DPAs) and private funding, each offering distinct benefits and challenges. Choosing the right approach depends on your family’s financial situation, long-term goals, and comfort with the risks involved.

Although there have been whispers of changes to inheritance tax for quite some time in today’s budget these whispers became a reality as Chancellor Rachel Reeves has now outlined several changes to inheritance tax as part of a wider push to raise revenue.