A will is important. A solid estate plan goes much further.
Many people draw up a will and then rarely look at it again. Understandably so, because it often feels like something you only need to arrange once.
However, a great deal can change over time. Your wealth may grow, your family situation may change, or you may start, sell or transfer a business. Legislation and tax regulations also continue to evolve.
The Dutch government’s announced plans to modernise the inheritance tax calculation rules from 2028 once again demonstrate the importance of reviewing your estate plan on a regular basis. Not because you necessarily need to make immediate changes, but because looking ahead can help prevent unexpected consequences.
Why is estate planning about more than just a will?
Estate planning is often associated with inheritance tax or drafting a will. In reality, it encompasses much more.
It is about deciding how you want your wealth to be transferred to the next generation. How do you ensure your partner is financially secure? When is it beneficial to make gifts during your lifetime? Does your will still reflect your current circumstances? And how should you deal with business assets or real estate?
A well-designed estate plan brings all of these elements together, ensuring that your wealth is transferred according to your wishes, while taking into account your personal objectives as well as current legislation and tax rules.
Why is now a good time to review your estate plan?
The proposed legislative changes do not mean that everyone needs to take action immediately. The plans still need to be enacted into law, and transitional arrangements are expected for existing situations.
Nevertheless, this is an excellent opportunity to review your current planning.
- Does your will still reflect your current situation?
- Are previous lifetime gifts still the most appropriate strategy?
- Has the composition of your wealth changed?
- Is your estate plan aligned with future legislation and tax developments?
By reviewing your estate plan regularly, you remain in control and avoid having to make important decisions when it is already too late.
When should you review your estate plan?
A periodic review is advisable if:
- your wealth has increased over the past few years;
- you have had children or grandchildren;
- you have started, sold or are planning to transfer a business;
- your will has not been updated for many years;
- you make use of lifetime gifts or other wealth transfer structures;
- you would like to know whether your planning is still aligned with future legislation and tax developments.
Estate planning is not a document that you prepare once and then forget. It is a strategy that evolves alongside your life.
Meet Poundwise’s Estate Planning Team
Effective estate planning requires expertise from multiple disciplines. That is why several specialists at Poundwise work closely together. Financial planning, taxation and notarial expertise are combined into one integrated advisory approach.
Marc van der Vuurst focuses on comprehensive financial planning and helps clients prepare for the long term.
Rick Fransen advises on complex tax matters and wealth structuring.
Jos Hofstee, former civil-law notary, brings more than thirty years of experience in estate planning, inheritance matters and business succession.
Kees Welboren, tax adviser and Certified Financial Planner, translates tax opportunities into practical solutions for individuals and entrepreneurs.
Together, they look beyond the legal and tax aspects to determine what best suits your personal circumstances, your family and your future.
In the photograph, from left to right: Rick Fransen, Marc van der Vuurst and Jos Hofstee. Kees Welboren is not pictured as he was on holiday when the group photo was taken and has therefore been added separately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to update my will because of the new rules?
Not necessarily. The proposed changes still need to become law, and transitional arrangements are expected for existing situations. However, this is an excellent opportunity to review whether your current estate plan still meets your objectives.
Could inheritance tax change from 2028 onwards?
Yes. The Dutch government is working on new calculation rules that may affect certain estate planning strategies, such as paper gifts, inheritance claims between spouses and usufruct structures. Whether and how these changes will ultimately be implemented remains to be seen.
When should I have my estate plan reviewed?
It is advisable to review your estate plan whenever there are significant changes in your personal circumstances, your wealth or legislation. By looking ahead on a regular basis, you can avoid unexpected consequences for yourself and future generations.
Is your estate plan ready for the future?
Good estate planning is not just about today’s rules—it is about tomorrow’s decisions.
At Poundwise, we believe financial peace of mind starts with looking ahead. That is why we focus not only on what matters today, but also on what may change tomorrow.
Schedule an introductory meeting
Would you like to know whether your estate plan still reflects your wishes and long-term objectives?
Our Estate Planning Team would be pleased to review your situation with you and discuss the opportunities available, both now and in the future.
Contact us to schedule an introductory meeting. Together, we will ensure that your financial planning is ready for the next generation.
Poundwise Financial Experts
Moving you forward
Telephone: 020-3057555
Email: info@poundwise.nl
