Jacques Sheppard

Could you be more financially savvy this tax year?

March, and spring more generally, is often a time for fresh starts. And now your tax allowances are getting one too. The new tax year begins on 6 April, giving you time to plan how you’ll use all those new allowances to your advantage.

Take your ISA allowance. It can be tempting to leave it until the last minute to use it up. But, if you’re able to pay into it at the beginning of the year, you’re potentially getting a whole extra 12 months of time for your savings to grow.

A review right at the start of the tax year, or just before it, can also help us spot if there are any tax incentives you could use throughout the year.

You might be surprised just how many people don’t do this - and miss out on money that’s rightfully theirs. These tax incentives can be things like increasing your pension contributions or charitable giving to help offset your income tax.

I can also draw up a cashflow model to bring this to life. The model allows us to explore and compare different strategies and scenarios, so you can see the difference it will make to your long-term finances and goals.

If you want to find out more about the savvy financial strategies I could help you with this tax year, feel free to get in touch.

Tax treatment varies according to individual circumstances and is subject to change.

Stocks and Shares ISAs invest in corporate bonds, stocks and shares and other assets that fluctuate in value.

Tax Planning is not regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

Approver Quilter Financial Services Limited & Quilter Mortgage Planning Limited. November 2025.

It is my belief that financial freedom creates a better world around us. When we are financially free, we gain the confidence to pursue opportunities that we might otherwise avoid. This could mean building a business, transitioning into a new career, or simply having the extra funds to invest in something that enhances life. The possibilities are limitless, but the fact remains; when people are not held back by financial worries, their time and money become unlocked. This enables them to be more generous, spend more time with their families, build communities, and create opportunities for themselves and others. This belief drives my passion for helping clients and providing a service that I truly believe is a force for good in the world.

I came to financial planning after spending 13 years of service as a Combat Medic in the British Army. This experience provided me with a unique perspective on what it takes to achieve success. Working alongside dedicated, intelligent individuals, I learned the importance of discipline, adaptability, and resilience. These values have shaped my approach to financial planning, where I combine meticulous preparation with the ability to adjust to life’s inevitable changes. As a medic, I also developed a deep understanding of human behaviour and empathy - skills I now use to connect with clients on a personal level, understanding their needs, aspirations, and challenges.

My focus is on building strong, lasting relationships with my clients, where their success is my success. I am committed to providing the support and guidance they need to achieve their financial goals.

Outside of work, you will often find me on a tennis court or in the kitchen experimenting with Asian inspired dishes. I live in Ewell and advise clients in various districts and boroughs of Surrey and surrounding areas.