What is a Business Client? 

A Business, whether it be a Sole Trader, Partnership, Limited Company or PLC requires specialist financial advice to address it’s own distinctive needs, coupled with the needs of the business owners/operators and employees. 
 
We liaise closely with the accountants to the business so as to ensure that our understanding of the situation moving forward is such that our advice serves only to enhance the financial wellbeing of the business. Accurate risk assessment, and a thorough knowledge of the ever changing market and legislation issues allow us to identify the most cost effective and workable solutions, whilst at the same time empowering the business through “proactive” advice. We firmly believe that our relationships with our clients are based upon the “two way street” principle; we always ensure that our clients are kept in the picture. Equally we do ask that they extend the same courtesy to us. This allows us to update all records and if need be take action on the client’s behalf, possibly preventing or minimising adverse financial impact to the business. 

Directors Share Purchase - Funding (usually Life Assurance contracts) that provide the remaining director(s) with the funds (when they need them) to exercise the option to purchase a deceased director's shares from their estate/widow/er; thereby assisting in ensuring that control of the company stays with the remaining director(s) and that the widow/er receives financial return for the shares. Note that contracts of this type should be accompanied by the appropriate Business Assurance Trusts and ideally a formal agreement between the directors.

Partnership Protection - Funding (usually Life Assurance contracts) that provide the remaining partner(s) with the funds (when they need them) to exercise the option to purchase a deceased partner's shares from their estate/widow/er; thereby assisting in ensuring that control of the business/firm stays with the remaining partner(s) and that the widow/er receives financial return for the deceased partner’s share of the business. Note that contracts of this type should be accompanied by the appropriate Business Assurance Trusts and ideally some form of agreement between the partners.  

Key Person Assurance - A variety of contracts available to protect a business against loss of profits upon losing the services of a Key Person within the business. The loss could be through Death, Critical Illness or due to Long Term Absence through ill health. The sudden negative financial impact to the business could even be crippling. Key Person Assurance removes that spectre, usually for reasonable cost, which under current legislation can be claimed as a business expense. However this last point should be considered carefully, as should identification of the correct type and amount of insurance for the job.

Pensions - For Business Owners/Directors; pensions are a perfect way of minimising liability to Corporation Tax and/or Income Tax. Certain types of pensions are able to purchase commercial properties; this opens up many advantageous avenues for the business owner who is kept well informed and is astute enough to plan accordingly. 

You are not certain to make a profit. You may make a loss. You may not get back the full amount you invested.

For employees; pensions are a benefit they desire now and rely upon after their working lives come to an end. Increasingly, quality candidates for a position will turn down job offers flat if a pension is not included. The UK Government is currently considering compelling both employers and employees to contribute to employee pensions, thereby relieving some of the pressure on future Governments. It may happen, it may not, but you certainly need to know if it affects you.

Employee Benefit Packages - Tailor made employee benefits packages to suit the needs and aspirations of the employees and just as importantly, to suit the pocket of the employer. Various contracts providing different types of cover, for example a Group Life contract could provide life insurance cover for employees based upon their salaries. This is attractive to the vast majority of employees and makes them feel more secure and also more appreciative of their employer. It assists the employer in retaining good people, thereby reducing risk of loss of profit due to staff shortage, recruitment and retraining costs etc. Many types of benefit exist, it is simply a matter of selecting those that are most relevant to your firm and it’s employees.  

Death In Service Benefit - A specifically designed contract that allows an employer to provide Life Cover for their employees. Employee categories can be agreed and up to four times basic salary can be provided as an amount of Life Cover. Generally this is a bedrock of an Employee Benefits Package. When new employees join, they can easily be added to the contract. Annually renewable, giving flexibility and control to the employer.  

Private Medical Insurance - For the employer who has employees that are integral to the success of the business and whose prolonged absence would adversely effect the employer. A wide variety of contracts providing varying levels of benefits, enabling employers to “custom fit” to their needs. Many contracts offer instant access to hospital facilities, giving peace of mind to employees and reducing “down time” for the employer. Often put in place for those in senior and supervisory positions. A benefit that would be expected by many candidates for senior positions and also a good way to retain those who are “invaluable” within the business. 

Commercial Lending - Through our knowledge and contacts we are able to source funds for a huge variety of commercial purposes. Capital Equipment purchase/replacement, Property Purchase, Expansion Plans are just some of the areas that reputable lenders are willing to lend. Rates and terms are constantly changing, making the services provided by a professional all the more important and ensuring that you obtain the best rates and terms available in the market. One Life Financial Planning Ltd does not provide specific advice in this area. We would however refer you to our professional contacts who are specialists in this area.

The Financial Services Authority does not regulate business loans.

Investments - We can provide both on-shore and off-shore investments for the business that has funds in excess of operating requirements. This is a very complex area that requires expert handling to ensure that the business not only invests in areas and contracts that fit with it’s investment attitudes, but that also allows access to the funds (if required) should they be called upon unexpectedly by the business.

Accountancy Services - Although we at One Life Financial Planning Ltd are not qualified to provide advice on accounting issues, we are fortunate enough to work with some very fine firms of accountants. We would happily introduce a business to accountants whose expertise best suits the business and of course we would liaise and work closely with them on business issues, so as to ensure “joined up” financial planning across the board. 

The Financial Services Authority does not regulate accountancy activities.