IHT pensions changes expected to drive 'strong interest' in annuities

Though ‘ambiguity’ persists on annuities treatment, retirement planning expert says

Jen Frost
clock • 3 min read

The Budget announcement that inheritance tax (IHT) will apply on pensions from 2027 could make annuities more popular, a retirement specialist has predicted.

"With the imposition of inheritance tax on pensions from 2027 announced in the Autumn Budget, I expect we'll continue to see very strong interest in the annuities market as people look to secure other ways of passing on more to their loved ones," said Scottish Widows managing director, retirement Emma Watkins. Annuities had already been surging in popularity before the 30 October Autumn Budget. Association of British Insurer (ABI) figures show 59% growth year-on-year between Q1 2023 and Q1 2024. Watkins attributed the rise to rate improvements and people having "increasingly valued th...

To continue reading this article...

Join Professional Adviser for free

  • Unlimited access to real-time news, industry insights and market intelligence
  • Stay ahead of the curve with spotlights on emerging trends and technologies
  • Receive breaking news stories straight to your inbox in the daily newsletters
  • Make smart business decisions with the latest developments in regulation, investing retirement and protection
  • Members-only access to the editor’s weekly Friday commentary
  • Be the first to hear about our events and awards programmes

Join

 

Already a Professional Adviser member?

Login

Jen Frost
Author spotlight

Jen Frost

Editor at Professional Adviser

More on Pensions

IHT on pensions to cause 'operational complexity and risk' for providers

IHT on pensions to cause 'operational complexity and risk' for providers

Expected to lead to delays in payments to beneficiaries

Isabel Baxter
clock 31 January 2025 • 3 min read
DB transfer advice slows since FCA's 2020 crackdown

DB transfer advice slows since FCA's 2020 crackdown

Many firms have stopped offering DB advice, regulator finds

Isabel Baxter
clock 30 January 2025 • 2 min read
SSAS and divorce: Everything advisers need to know

SSAS and divorce: Everything advisers need to know

'It's estimated that only 4% of divorces include a pension'

Caitlin Southall
clock 30 January 2025 • 5 min read