Aviva’s quarterly Real Retirement Report published this week shows there has been a significant increase in over-55s’ fears about the rising cost of living. 74% said that the rise in living costs would be their biggest fear over the next six months.
Food prices and energy bills are likely to rise from next year as VAT increases from 17.5% to 20%. This could mean that many over 55s will have to significantly cut down on their expenditure to leave enough for a rainy day fund. Unexpected expenses are worrying 36% of over 55s, especially as many live month by month with no spare cash to fall back on in case of emergencies.
Help with Finances in Retirement
However, through an equity release scheme, cash can be unlocked from a property and that cash can be used to help with finances in retirement. Whether it’s a contingency fund to cater for emergencies, or a plan that allows the draw down of cash sums in the region of £2,000 a time to help with regular living expenses, equity release is flexible enough to cater for a range of needs.
Unlocking cash from a property is safe providing a Safe Home Income Plans (SHIP) equity release plan is chosen, or one with the same guarantees.
Equity release can be a lifetime mortgage or a home reversion plan. Both offer their own benefits and a specialist equity release adviser will explain them in full.
Equity release may involve a lifetime mortgage or home reversion plan.
To understand the features and risks, please ask for a personalised illustration.