“True wealth is the ability to use your resources purposefully — to enrich lives, not just balance sheets.”
At Wells Gibson, more and more families are asking a deeply important question:
“How much is too much?”
It’s a wonderful question because it recognises that wealth isn’t only about what you have, but what you choose to do with it. For many, the idea of “giving while living” — passing on wealth during their lifetime, is becoming more appealing than leaving a large inheritance later on.
We often begin by exploring “How much is enough?” helping clients gain confidence in knowing they have the resources to live the life they want. Increasingly, though, families are asking “How much is too much?” how much to give, and when.
Finding the balance between enough and too much is central to living, giving, and leaving with purpose.
In this article, we explore why lifetime gifting is growing in popularity, what it means for families, and how thoughtful planning can make giving both financially sound and emotionally fulfilling.
Why Families are Choosing to Give Earlier
There are many reasons why clients are choosing to give now rather than later, and as Jonathan Gibson writes in Purposeful Wealth
“Wealth should be seen as a tool, not a trophy, something to be used for good, not merely stored.”
That perspective has never felt more relevant.
Seeing the Impact First-Hand
Giving during your lifetime allows you to witness the difference your support makes — whether it’s helping a child buy a first home, supporting grandchildren through university, or funding a family venture. You get to see your generosity at work, enriching lives while you’re still here to share in the joy.
Strengthening Family Bonds
Conversations around gifting can create valuable opportunities for shared purpose and open dialogue — helping families align values and set expectations around money.
Jonathan reminds us,
“Money can unite or divide — but with wise stewardship, it becomes a bridge between generations.”
Tax-efficient Planning
From annual gift allowances to Potentially Exempt Transfers (PETs) and trust structures, gifting can form an important part of an effective Inheritance Tax (IHT) strategy. Done thoughtfully, it may help reduce a future tax liability while allowing you to maintain financial independence.
Emotional Fulfilment
Giving while living isn’t just about tax — it’s about joy, legacy, and intentional generosity. Knowing your wealth is enabling loved ones to thrive today can be deeply rewarding.
How Much is Too Much?
It’s natural to worry about giving too much, or too soon. The key is to understand what’s sustainable for you.
We help clients model the impact of lifetime gifts using Voyant cashflow planning. This shows clearly how different levels of gifting might affect your future lifestyle, helping you give with confidence, not uncertainty.
We often say:
“Gifting should be an act of abundance, not anxiety.”
Jonathan captures this beautifully in Purposeful Wealth:
“True generosity begins with clarity — when you know you have enough, you are freed to share with purpose.”
Our aim is to help you find the right balance, ensuring generosity today doesn’t compromise security tomorrow.
Purposeful Wealth in Action
You might choose to:
- Support your children’s first homes or business ventures
- Contribute to grandchildren’s education
- Make charitable gifts that reflect your values
- Help loved ones navigate major life transitions
Whatever form your generosity takes, the most meaningful gifts often combine financial support with wisdom, guidance, and shared experience.
By giving while living, you’re not only transferring assets, you’re transferring insight, encouragement, and vision.
How Wells Gibson Can Help
Our role is to guide you through the financial, emotional, and practical dimensions of gifting:
- Creating a clear gifting strategy within your overall wealth plan
- Understanding tax implications and available allowances
- Balancing generosity with long-term financial security
- Facilitating family conversations around wealth and values
Giving can be one of life’s greatest privileges, especially when it’s done purposefully.
“Your wealth is a story — make sure it’s one worth telling.”
If you’d like to explore your own lifetime gifting strategy, please get in touch. We’d be delighted to help you find a balance between living well, giving well, and leaving well.
Important Notes
This blog is for general information purposes only and does not constitute personalised financial or investment advice. It reflects the views of Wells Gibson at the time of publication and may change without notice.
While the content is based on sources we believe to be reliable, we cannot guarantee its accuracy or completeness. Any opinions expressed are for informational purposes only and are not a substitute for tailored, regulated advice.
Please note that the value of investments can fall as well as rise, and you may not get back the amount originally invested. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results.
References to financial products, planning tools, or investment strategies are provided for context or educational insight only. They do not constitute a recommendation, endorsement, or a substitute for independent due diligence.
Before making any financial decisions, we strongly recommend considering your individual circumstances and seeking independent, regulated financial advice.
Wells Gibson is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.
