Many want to protect their home from care fees, but the wrong steps can trigger deprivation of assets rules — undoing your plans. Beware advisers selling expensive Trusts on the promise of protection; these can cause tax issues, block equity release, and tie you to costly trustees. Early, legal planning with tools like Protective Property Trust Wills can protect assets without the risks.

Many believe the 7-year rule wipes out Inheritance Tax on gifts, but if you still benefit from what you’ve given away, HMRC may treat it as though you never gave it up. This is called a Gift with Reservation of Benefit (GWR). Common traps include giving your home to children or putting it into a trust but continuing to live there rent-free. GWR rules can lead to unexpected tax bills and other risks — get advice before making large gifts.

Mirror Wills are simple and flexible, allowing couples to leave everything to each other, then to children—but they can be changed after one partner dies. Mutual Wills are legally binding but too rigid for most families. For couples worried about sideways disinheritance or care fees, a Protective Property Trust in a Mirror Will offers the best of both worlds—protecting your loved ones while giving your partner security and flexibility.

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