Giving my kids a leg-up
Helping them rise, without knocking your own financial future off balance.
Giving your children a leg up means giving more than just support. It’s giving them belief, freedom, and opportunity. Whether it’s a deposit for their first home, helping financially with university costs, or a financial buffer in tough times, it’s about backing them when it counts.
And let’s face it, as parents we’ll do whatever it takes to give our children the best shot at life.
Graduates in England are leaving university with an average debt of £53,000 (as of 2024–25) – with a 10% rise year-on-year.
Source: Student Loans Company, Student Loans in England: Financial Year 2024–25
Why it matters
More parents than ever are looking to pass on wealth while they are still around to see it make a difference. Whether it’s a one-off gift or regular support, giving now, rather than waiting until it becomes an inheritance, can have a real impact. The rules matter and the planning matters even more.
Done right, gifting can benefit everyone. Your child, your wider family, and your own long-term financial wellbeing.
How we help
Make the most of tax-free gifting
We’ll guide you through annual exemptions, small gift allowances, and gifts for big milestones like weddings or civil partnerships.
Understanding the Nil Rate Band and Residence Nil-Rate Band
Make sure your family is covered if something unexpected happens
Structure gifts with impact and control
Set up trusts to control how and when funds are accessed, protecting both the gift and the recipient. Trusts are not regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.
Use surplus income wisely
Make regular, tax-free payments without affecting your lifestyle, using the ‘normal income from expenditure’ rule.
Plan for Potentially Exempt Transfers
Give larger gifts and understand how to manage the seven-year rule and taper relief.
Keep your pension in play
With smart planning, your pension can be a powerful tool for passing on wealth outside of your estate. Please note, that changes coming in 2027 means pensions will form part of your estate.
Consider equity release
Release capital from your home to help your family now – with expert advice, no negative equity guarantees, and flexible options.
This is a lifetime mortgage. To understand the features and risks, please ask for a personalised illustration.The value of an investment with St. James's Place will be directly linked to the performance of the funds you select and the value can therefore go down as well as up. You may get back less than you invested.
The levels and bases of taxation and reliefs from taxation can change at any time. The value of any tax relief depends on individual circumstances.
Meet our people
Meet our people
Our clients are real people, and so are we. Scroll through our team to meet the people who can build your financial plan. Not sure who might fit your requirements? Get in touch
