Page 62 • The HERALD • 12th March 2026 v THE HERALD - Your Community Magazine v ASK A PROFESSIONAL MAKING THE MOST OF THE TAX YEAR by Michael Osman, Oyster Financial Planning As we approach the end of the tax year on 5th April, many people are busy with work, family life and everyday commitments. However, this time of year presents an important opportunity to review your nances and make the most of valuable tax allowances before they reset. Each tax year brings allowances that, if unused, are usually lost. ese can include ISA allowances, pension contribution allowances, capital gains tax allowances and dividend allowances. Making use of these can help you invest in a more tax-e cient way and potentially improve your long-term nancial position. Even modest contributions, made consistently, can grow signi cantly over time thanks to the power of compounding. One of the most common things I hear as a nancial adviser/planner is, “I wish I’d started earlier.” e good news is that it’s never too late to take action. e start of a new tax year is also a natural time to reassess your nancial goals. Whether you are planning for retirement, supporting children or grandchildren, building savings, or simply wanting to ensure your money is working as e ectively as possible, having a clear plan can make a real di erence. Investing isn’t about taking unnecessary risks or chasing short-term gains. It’s about creating longterm stability, building options for the future and protecting what matters most to you. With the right guidance, investing can be structured in a way that re ects your personal goals and attitude to risk. As we move toward the end of this tax year and into the next, I would encourage anyone who hasn’t reviewed their nances recently to consider doing so. A simple conversation can o en highlight opportunities and provide reassurance. Taking small steps today could have a meaningful impact on your nancial future tomorrow. If you would like to discuss any of the above please call Michael at Oyster on: 023 8084 8410 or email: michael@oyster nancialplanning.co.uk or just pop into our o ce in Hythe and see us. Michael Osman, Oyster Financial Planning
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