Guide

Your guide to SSAS planning

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Self-Invested Small Self-Administered Schemes (SSASs) have long been valued by business owners and families for their flexibility, allowing members to invest in commercial property, support succession planning and build wealth across generations.

Our latest guide, “SSAS Planning in a Changing IHT Environment”, explores some of the key considerations, including:

  • The practical impact of member death on SSAS arrangements
  • Managing liquidity where schemes hold illiquid assets such as commercial property or private company investments
  • Reviewing trustee governance and decision-making processes
  • The role of letters of wishes and death benefit nominations
  • Opportunities for intergenerational wealth and succession planning
  • Why regular strategic reviews are becoming increasingly important

For many families and business owners, a SSAS remains a powerful planning tool. But changing legislation and evolving estate planning needs mean that now is the ideal time to review whether existing arrangements remain fit for purpose.

The guide provides valuable insights for solicitors, trustees, accountants and business owners looking to help clients navigate these challenges with confidence.

Important Note

The information contained within this page is subject to the UK regulatory regime and is therefore primarily targeted at consumers based in the UK.

This article is distributed for educational purposes only. This communication does not constitute financial advice. Individuals must not rely on this information to make a financial or investment decision. Before making any decision, we recommend you consult your financial planner to take into account your particular investment objectives, financial situation and individual needs.

The opinions stated in this document are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the view of Progeny and should not be relied upon to make a financial decision.

Information contained herein has been obtained from sources believed to be reliable but is not guaranteed.

Any links to third party websites provided are for convenience only. We do not control, endorse, or guarantee the content, accuracy, or availability of these external sites. Users access these links at their own risk.

FAQs

A Self-Invested Small Self-Administered Scheme (SSAS) is an occupational pension scheme typically used by business owners, directors and family members. It offers significant flexibility over investment decisions, including commercial property and certain business-related investments.

 

Changes to the Inheritance Tax landscape are prompting many business owners and families to review their pension arrangements. While tax implications are important, trustees should also consider liquidity, death benefit planning and how beneficiaries may access funds following a member’s death.

A SSAS should be reviewed regularly, particularly following major life events, changes in business ownership, retirement planning decisions or developments in pension and tax legislation.

Your guide to SASS Planning

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Meet the expert
Nick Parkes
Nick_Parkes
Chartered Financial Planner

With more than 11 years of experience in financial services, Nick Parkes helps individuals and families gain clarity and confidence in their financial future. Based in Nottingham, he works with clients across the Midlands, Leeds and the wider UK, specialising in retirement planning, later-life advice, inheritance tax planning and estate planning. Nick supports high-net-worth individuals, retirees and families navigating complex financial decisions, helping them understand what their wealth can achieve both now and in the years ahead.

Expertise in Complex Financial Decisions

Nick holds some of the profession’s highest qualifications, including Certified Financial Planner™ (CFP™), Chartered Fellow (Financial Planning), Chartered Wealth Manager and Chartered Financial Planner status. He is also a SOLLA Accredited Later Life Adviser, Pension Transfer Specialist and STEP Affiliate. Drawing on a background in pensions, consultancy and financial planning, he combines technical expertise with practical advice to help clients make informed decisions. Cashflow modelling is central to his approach, enabling clients to visualise their future and plan with greater certainty.

A Personal, Long-Term Approach

Nick’s approach is built on strong relationships and a clear understanding of what matters most to each client. By taking time to understand their goals, family circumstances and long-term aspirations, he helps create financial plans that evolve as life changes.

Working alongside clients, their families and other professional advisers, Nick provides connected advice across retirement, later-life and estate planning. He is also passionate about developing the profession, serving on the Advisory Board of SOLLA, contributing to the CISI Editorial Panel, lecturing at Coventry University and mentoring the next generation of financial planners.

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