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Brighton Office: 01273 202311

Wimbledon Office: 020 8946 1212

Trust Accounting Service

Trusts aren't just for the very wealthy.

At Hartley Fowler, we provide our clients with a diverse array of trust accounting services. Trusts serve as crucial components of a comprehensive wealth protection strategy, safeguarding your assets for the future. Establishing a trust offers a tax-efficient method to transfer your property, money or investments, serving as a key element in effective inheritance tax planning.

When Might You Consider Setting Up a Trust?

You might consider setting up a trust if you are thinking about:

  • Transitioning from Business Ownership: If you’re contemplating stepping back from your business operations but want to avoid dividing shares among family members, a trust can provide a structured solution.
  • Protecting Assets for Future Generations: When planning to pass assets to your children while safeguarding them from potential risks like divorce, a trust acts as a protective mechanism.
  • Providing for Your Partner and Children: A trust can be used to support your partner in the event of your passing, whilst ultimately preserving assets for your children. 
  • Charitable Giving: When contemplating a significant donation to charity, utilising a trust can streamline the process and maximise the impact of your contribution.
  • Caring for Vulnerable Beneficiaries: For beneficiaries facing vulnerabilities or disabilities, setting up a trust can ensure ongoing financial support and protection of their interests.

  • Supporting Grandchildren’s Education: If you’re currently covering or planning to cover school fees for your grandchildren, a trust can offer a structured approach to manage these expenses efficiently.

Our Trust Planning Services

As a specialist trust fund accountant, we can advise on how to set up and administer:

  • Discretionary trusts
  • Accumulation and maintenance trusts for children
  • Interest in possession trusts
  • Specialist Trust Accounting Services

Why Enlist the Expertise of a Trust Fund Accountant?

TEstablishing a trust enables you to pass your assets to your chosen beneficiaries, rather than selling or dissolving them to pay inheritance tax or other liabilities on your estate. Our trust accountancy team has the knowledge and experience to assist you with all aspects of your tax planning and financial affairs. With our tailored trust accounting and tax services, we can provide the most appropriate solution to meet your wishes. We offer comprehensive wealth management planning services, handling all aspects of trust accountancy and tax affairs on your behalf. With our expertise, you can trust that your assets will be managed in a compliant and efficient manner, providing you with unparalleled peace of mind.

Next Step: Call our Trust Accountant Team

Please contact us if you have any questions about our trust accounting services. Alternatively, if you would like a free initial consultation with an expert trust fund accountant, please contact us today.

FAQs

Do accountants deal with trusts?

Yes, accountants often deal with trusts as part of their practice. At Hartley Fowler, we can assist you in setting up and administering discretionary trusts, trusts for children and interest in possession trusts. 

What is the role of a trust fund accountant?


A trust fund accountant plays a vital role in managing the financial affairs of trusts, ensuring compliance with legal and regulatory requirements, and maximising the benefits for beneficiaries.

What is a trust fund in accounting?

In accounting, a trust fund refers to a legal arrangement where assets are held by one party (the trustee) for the benefit of another party (the beneficiary). Trust funds are established to manage and protect assets, often for specific purposes such as estate planning, charitable giving, or providing for the financial needs of beneficiaries.

Who is the best person to manage a trust?

When deciding on a trustee, individuals often turn to family or friends due to the trust they have in them. However, this approach can present challenges, as emotions may cloud judgement. The role of a trustee carries significant responsibilities, some of which can be daunting. Therefore, considering a professional trustee might be the best option.

Is an accountant a professional trustee?

Yes. Your accountant is considered a professional trustee. These individuals bring expertise, impartiality, and a commitment to fulfilling fiduciary duties, providing assurance and peace of mind in trust administration.

What is the role of a trust in tax planning?

Trusts are highly beneficial tools for estate planning, especially in terms of tax efficiency, notably for Inheritance Tax mitigation. They offer versatile solutions across various scenarios, facilitating the smooth transfer of assets to designated beneficiaries according to your specific preferences and intentions.

Who is responsible for a trust fund?

All trustees are equally legally responsible for the trust, but you must nominate one ‘lead’ trustee to be the main point of contact for HMRC.

How much does a trust cost in the UK?

The typical cost for establishing a basic trust generally falls within the range of £1000 to £1500. The precise amount varies based on the extent of legal guidance required and the time taken by your solicitor to compile the specific terms. 

Trusts offer a versatile framework for organising your financial matters, available in various types to suit your needs and preferences. To discover more about how to set up a trust in the UK, please get in touch with our team who will be happy to provide tailored guidance.

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