How Pension Changes Could Reshape Estate Planning: Strategic Marketing Opportunities for Financial Planners

The UK pensions landscape is entering a period of profound change. Following the October 2024 Budget announcement and subsequent government consultation process, new rules are set to take effect from 6th April 2027 that will dramatically alter how pensions are treated for inheritance tax (IHT) purposes.

For financial advisers and planners, this represents both a challenge and a significant marketing opportunity—a chance to differentiate your practice by providing timely, strategic guidance during a period of regulatory upheaval whilst building robust, compliant campaigns that attract high-value clients seeking expert estate planning advice.

Legacy Giving: A Strategic Marketing Opportunity for Financial Advisers

Published: 20 August 2025

A new study by Rathbones reveals a significant gap in the philanthropic planning market that presents substantial opportunities for forward-thinking financial advisers. The research, highlighted in Third Force News, shows that whilst wealthy families increasingly want to leave money to charity, nearly half are deterred by legal and financial complexity.

The Market Opportunity: Growing Demand Meets Service Gap

The data reveals compelling trends that suggest a substantial market opportunity. Among high-net-worth individuals with average estates exceeding £3 million, 42% cite legal and financial complexity as the primary barrier to including charitable gifts in their wills. Additional barriers include lack of knowledge (39%) and uncertainty about where to begin (26%).

IHT on Pensions and Consumer Duty: Strategic Marketing Opportunities for Financial Advisers

From 6 April 2027, most unused Defined Contribution (DC) pension assets will be included within estates for Inheritance Tax (IHT) purposes, ending their long-held IHT-free status. This significant regulatory shift is projected to make approximately 10,500 estates newly liable for IHT and see a further 38,500 estates paying increased IHT in the 2027-28 tax year alone—with an estimated £3.44 billion in additional revenue over the first three years.