March Headline from Quayside
Finishing the Tax Year Strong
With March here, we’re into the final stretch of the tax year. What felt comfortably “on the horizon” a few weeks ago is now just around the corner, making this the ideal time to turn good intentions into action.
Here in Gloucestershire, we’ve been having plenty of conversations with clients about last-minute allowances, contribution top-ups, and making sure nothing is left unused before 5 April. Much like refreshing CPR training, it’s about being prepared, taking small, practical steps now that can make a difference later.
Our fundraising for Meningitis Now continues, and it’s been fantastic to see the steady support building. It’s another reminder that consistency counts. Whether it’s giving back to the community or staying on top of your financial planning, progress is often the result of regular, thoughtful action rather than big dramatic moves.
Monthly Headline
A Few Things You Might Have Overlooked Before Year-End
As the tax year draws to a close, it’s easy to focus on the big items and miss some smaller opportunities that could make a difference. Just as our team has been staying on top of their skills and training, taking a moment to review these often-overlooked areas can help keep your finances in great shape.
- Unused Capital Gains Allowance
If you’ve made any investments this year, it’s worth checking whether you have remaining capital gains allowance. Planning how and when to realise gains before 5 April can be a simple way to manage your tax efficiently. - Marriage Allowance Transfers
Couples can sometimes transfer unused personal allowance between partners, which may reduce overall tax liability. A quick review could uncover savings you hadn’t considered. - Charitable Giving Before the Year-End
Donations made before 5 April can provide tax relief while supporting causes that matter to you, a win-win for your finances and your community. - Review Company Expenses and Allowances
For directors, a final check on allowable expenses or benefits can ensure you’re not missing deductions that could make a meaningful difference to your tax position.
Taking a little time now to review these items can help you finish the tax year confidently and step into the new one with your financial planning in order.
Your March Checklist: Quick Year-End Actions
- Check your pension contributions and make sure you’re using your allowances.
- Review any unused ISA allowance and consider topping up.
- Look at capital gains you could realise before 5 April.
- Explore marriage allowance transfers if applicable.
- Make any charitable donations you want tax relief on this year.
- Review company expenses or allowances to ensure nothing is missed.
A few minutes spent on these steps now can help you finish the tax year feeling organised, confident, and ready for the next one.
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 and are generally dependent on individual circumstances.
Further Insights
If you’re interested in reading further, we also have more useful information on our website which can be found here.
Charity News
After Last Year’s Success…
After the incredible milestone we reached last year raising £10,000 for the Pied Piper Appeal, we’re excited to continue our fundraising journey in 2026. This year, our focus is on supporting Meningitis Now, a cause that makes a real difference in people’s lives.
We are looking forward to taking on new challenges, getting creative, and working together as a team to make a positive impact. Keep an eye on our updates throughout the year as we share our progress and adventures!
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