Ashley's blog

Ashley Shepherd is the founder and managing director at Over50choices. With over 30 years’ experience in financial services, he has held senior roles in building societies, banks and insurance companies.

Ashley Shepherd
How does the cremation process work in the UK? Image
22nd Oct 2020

How does the cremation process work in the UK?

Little is known about the cremation process. Myths surrounding multiple cremations and recycled coffins are all common place, however the truth about cremation is somewhat different

How much is stamp duty on a house? Image
05th Aug 2020

How much is stamp duty on a house?

The amount of stamp duty you pay on property depends on the purchase price. Usually property valued up to £125,000 is tax free whereas property valued between £125,001 and £250,000 is taxed at 2%. However, this has now changed with the recent introduction of the stamp duty holiday.

Over half of UK homeowners change equity release plans amid coronavirus pandemic Image
04th May 2020

Over half of UK homeowners change equity release plans amid coronavirus pandemic

Coronavirus has impacted virtually every aspect of our lives. The way we work, shop, socialise and manage our finances. After a brief period of normality following the drawn out Brexit saga, covid-19 has brought another wave of uncertainty to UK homeowners.

What is Martin Lewis travel insurance advice? Image
24th Apr 2020

What is Martin Lewis travel insurance advice?

Martin Lewis’ advice on travel insurance includes information on when and how to insure your holiday. In addition to providing general information on what to look out for when reviewing travel insurance policies

How to stop nuisance calls with the Telephone Preference Service Image
22nd Apr 2020

How to stop nuisance calls with the Telephone Preference Service

The Telephone Preference Service, also known as the TPS is the UK’s official ‘do not call’ register. As it’s illegal for organisations to make unsolicited calls to Telephone Preference Service registered numbers

Over 60 railcard guide Image
13th Apr 2020

Over 60 railcard guide

Over 60 railcards save older train users money on their rail fares. In addition to cheaper train tickets, an over 60 railcard also gives you access to further discounts on products and services

What impact is the Coronavirus having on funerals in the UK? Image
02nd Apr 2020

What impact is the Coronavirus having on funerals in the UK?

Whether you’re in the difficult position of arranging a funeral or not, coronavirus has forced many of us to consider our own mortality. We have certainly seen an increase in visitors to the Over50choices website researching funeral planning and preplanning options, especially direct cremation.

Coronavirus UK advice for the elderly Image
16th Mar 2020

Coronavirus UK advice for the elderly

As coronavirus is new there is no treatment for it and antibiotics do not work against virus’. It is therefore extremely important to practice good hygiene and follow the government’s advice.

What happens to my digital accounts when I die Image
16th Dec 2019

What happens to my digital accounts when I die

In this digital age of modern technology, much of our lives is spent online. Social media, online banking, gaming or music; the internet and electronic devices all play a crucial part.

Bereavement services in the UK Image
02nd Dec 2019

Bereavement services in the UK

Find out more about bereavement services and the support available near you. Including whether you are entitled to any cash allowances

Jobs for over 50s at all time high Image
30th Jul 2019

Jobs for over 50s at all time high

2019 has been a bumper year for jobs for the over 50s, with employment levels at an all time high and growing numbers becoming self employed; but what is the real story behind the headlines?

Equity Release Council Autumn 2018 Market Report Image
25th Sep 2018

Equity Release Council Autumn 2018 Market Report

The Equity Release Council Autumn 2018 Market Report is out and makes very interesting reading on the way we view property and the part it is starting to play in our retirement and later life planning.

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