Selling a business isn’t just a financial event, it’s a turning point in your life. For many founders, it brings a powerful combination of excitement, relief, exhaustion, and uncertainty. While your bank balance may look healthier than ever, the emotional toll of a sale is often underestimated.

“The sale of a business is a life-changing event, often bringing significant financial gain but also emotional overload.”

 What follows is a high-stakes moment: decisions made in the days, weeks and months after an exit can shape your financial legacy for decades. Yet this is also when many entrepreneurs experience what's known as deal fatigue: a combination of mental exhaustion, uncertainty, and diminished decision-making capacity.

Rather than rushing into investments or sweeping financial plans, wealth professionals advise taking a deliberate approach: pause, plan and protect.

The instinct to act fast after a sale is strong, to invest the lump sum, start a new venture or make big purchases. But this moment calls for clarity, not speed. Your risk appetite may be temporarily skewed, and your long-term goals might still be unclear.

“To create a financial plan and an investment strategy that’s right for you, it’s important to first take the time to understand exactly what you want life to look like.”

This period of reflection is not wasted time, it’s a necessary buffer that helps ensure your next moves are aligned with what matters most to you and your family.

The Four-Box Framework: A Balanced Wealth Holding Strategy

To help business owners organise their newly acquired wealth while they gain clarity, Evelyn proposes a four-box structure: a practical holding framework that balances safety, liquidity, and flexibility.

This is the foundation of any financial plan, ensuring you can meet short-term needs without selling investments or incurring penalties. These funds typically sit in instant-access savings accounts or money market vehicles.

The key here is peace of mind. Knowing you have readily available capital reduces anxiety and protects you from being forced into poor decisions under pressure.

Tip from Evelyn Partners: Diversify across institutions to stay under the £85,000 Financial Services Compensation Scheme compensation limit per provider.

Most entrepreneurs will see a drop in regular income after a sale, especially if they move into a non-executive or consulting role. If your lifestyle was supported by business profits or dividends, you’ll want to plan for that shortfall.

Evelyn Partners uses a simple example: dropping from £200,000 in annual income to an £80,000 salary. That £120,000 difference can be covered with ring-fenced, low-volatility assets, giving you breathing room while new routines and roles take shape.

From paying off tax bills to buying a dream home, major purchases often follow a business exit. This “celebration fund” is not just about indulgence, it’s about smartly allocating for large, known expenses.

Setting aside money for these events keeps your long-term investment strategy intact. It avoids premature drawdowns, and it gives you space to enjoy your success without disrupting your portfolio.

This is your future. But it shouldn’t be your immediate focus. 

“It can be easy to make less-than-optimal decisions in the heat of the moment.”

Jumping into complex investments too early, before your goals and mindset have settled, can lead to regret. Taking a staged approach allows you to build a portfolio that matches your real values and tolerance for risk.

Managing Inflation Risk: Consider Gilt Ladders

In an inflationary environment, cash loses value, but equities may feel too volatile in the short term. One solution is the gilt ladder: a staggered set of UK government bonds with maturities matched to your future cash flow needs.

Reduced reliance on risk assets in the near term

 explains: “Matching gilts with your income requirements can provide the potential for a better return than cash, without the risk of equities.”

Gilt Ladders offer a more predictable return than cash and carry less risk than equities, making them a useful way to preserve capital while still earning modest growth.

Major liquidity events are not only financial, but they’re also deeply personal. Life post-sale may feel uncertain or even aimless, especially if your business was a defining part of your identity. Wealth managers increasingly recognise that emotional well-being and financial planning must go hand in hand.

Evelyn Partners’ post-sale planning guide

: “The period after a transaction is complete is a good time to pause and reflect on both the past and the future. This has obvious benefits from a mental health and well-being perspective...”

This intentional pause offers space to redefine what success and purpose look like moving forward. During this time, professional advice is as much about coaching and clarity as it is about asset allocation.

Post-sale financial planning encompasses more than just managing spreadsheets; it involves navigating complex areas such as tax laws, behavioural biases, family governance, and evolving personal goals.​

 emphasises the importance of adaptability in wealth management:​ 

"Your circumstances and financial position will change over time; our ability to adapt to your requirements ensures that your portfolio will meet your needs throughout."

Engaging with a skilled wealth manager can provide comprehensive support, coordinating aspects like estate planning, asset allocation, pension consolidation, and philanthropic giving, all tailored to align with your next chapter in life.

Your business exit is a milestone. Don’t let deal fatigue or urgency undermine what you've worked for. Using a simple four-box framework can protect your capital, give you space to reflect, and ensure that when you're ready to plan for the long term, you’ll do so with clarity and purpose.

Compare Wealth Managers can help to connect you with leading wealth management firms like Evelyn Partners, Quilter Cheviot and others; click the orange “Start comparing” button to begin now or check out our 5* reviews from 

What to Do with the Money: Smart Post-Sale Planning for Business Owners

Maximising your paycheck isn’t about earning more, it’s about how you manage, save and invest the money you already have. Whether you're starting your career, growing into a higher income bracket, or enjoying the benefits of a substantial salary, there are specific strategies to help you make the most of every penny. Now we’ll break down some key approaches for different salary ranges, find yours below:

For Salaries Up to £30,000: Building a Strong Foundation

Between £30,000 - £50,000: Growing Your Savings

Between £50,000 - £100,000: Maximising Investments

Between £100,000 - £150,000: The Personal Allowance Trap

Between £150,000-£250,000: Managing the Additional Tax Rate & Maximising Efficiency

Over £250,000: Wealth Preservation and Growth

If you’re earning up to £30,000, your priority should be securing your financial foundation. You may not have much disposable income, but small, consistent steps can snowball into big results in the long term.

Begin by tracking every penny you spend. Use apps or budgeting tools such as 

 to identify where your money goes. This will help you cut out unnecessary expenses, like dining out or subscription services you no longer need.

Aim to save at least three months’ worth of expenses. Having an 

 will provide you with peace of mind in case of unexpected costs, like car repairs or medical bills.

Take advantage of tax-free savings with a 

 (Individual Savings Account). Even small amounts will grow over time, and the interest earned is tax-free.

If you have credit card or payday loan debt, focus on paying it off quickly. The interest on such debts can quickly spiral, leaving you with less money for other goals.

Consider investing in courses or certifications that could help you increase your earning potential in the future. Platforms like 

 offer affordable options to boost your skill set.

For Salaries Between £30,000 - £50,000: Growing Your Savings

In this salary range, you have more room to save and invest, but it’s important to be strategic. Here's how to make the most of your income:

At this income level, you're likely eligible for employer pension-matching contributions. Make sure you’re contributing enough to get the 

 as this is essentially free money for your future!

Consider opening a Stocks and Shares ISA, this type of account allows you to invest in stocks, bonds, and funds while benefiting from tax-free returns. Starting with as little as £50-£100 a month can build 

 over time. If you’re a first-time buyer, a Lifetime ISA (LISA) can boost savings towards homeownership with a 25% government bonus. If close to the £50,270 higher tax threshold, maximise pension contributions to stay in the 20% tax band.

Take time to outline specific financial goals, whether it’s buying a home, paying off debt, or building your investment portfolio. Having clear goals makes it easier to allocate savings and track progress.

Set up automatic transfers to your savings or investment accounts. By automating, you ensure that you're consistently 

As your salary increases, it can be tempting to increase your spending on unnecessary items. Instead, try to 

 and put the extra income into savings or investments for long-term growth.

For Salaries Between £50,000 - £100,000: Maximising Investments

When your income reaches this range, you're in a great position to grow your wealth significantly. It's now time to take a more active role in managing your finances:

With more disposable income, consider broadening your portfolio. Look into options such as 

. Diversification spreads your risk and maximises potential returns.

. You can reduce your taxable income by contributing to a pension scheme, and the returns from ISAs are tax-free.

As your wealth grows, so does your need for protection. Review your 

 policies to ensure you're adequately covered in case of emergencies or unforeseen circumstances.

Start contributing to a private pension if you haven’t already, or increase your contributions if you have. The earlier you begin planning for retirement, the more your money will grow over time thanks to 

With more significant assets, you may benefit from 

. A financial advisor or wealth manager can help you plan for the future, make informed investment decisions and ensure you're optimising your tax situation.

For Salaries Between £100,000 - £150,000: The Personal Allowance Trap

If you earn between £100,000 and £125,140, you enter what is often called the 60% tax trap due to the gradual loss of your £12,570 tax-free Personal Allowance. For every £2 earned over £100,000, your tax-free allowance reduces by £1, meaning by the time you reach £125,140, you have lost the entire £12,570 allowance, and all income is fully taxed.

Contributing more to your pension reduces your taxable income, helping you stay below the £100,000 threshold while securing your retirement.

Redirecting part of your salary towards benefits like pension contributions, cycle-to-work schemes, or electric cars can 

Gift Aid donations extend tax relief and reduce your adjusted net income, potentially helping you reclaim part of your Personal Allowance.

Maximising ISAs and Venture Capital Trusts (VCTs) can provide tax-efficient growth while reducing taxable income.

£150,000 - £250,000: Managing the Additional Tax Rate & Maximising Efficiency

Once your income exceeds £150,000, you enter the additional tax rate band, where earnings are taxed at 45% instead of 40%. At this level, strategic tax planning becomes essential to retain more of your income and maximise wealth growth.

Pensions remain a top tax-efficient tool and 

 offer 30% tax relief while supporting high-growth companies. 

 provides 50% tax relief and capital gains tax (CGT) exemptions. Stocks & Shares ISAs allow tax-free investment growth on up to £20,000 per year.

Donating via Gift Aid lowers taxable income, potentially reducing your exposure to the 45% tax rate and reclaiming some of your £12,570 personal allowance if your taxable income then dips below £125,140.

With estates above £325,000 taxed at 40%, estate planning is crucial. Use 

annual gifting allowances, trusts, and family investment companies

 to protect wealth for future generations.

If self-employed, dividends and corporate structures may be more tax-efficient than salary. 

 offer tax advantages over traditional buy-to-let properties.

For Salaries Above £250,000: Wealth Preservation and Growth

With a salary over £250,000, you're more able to focus on wealth preservation while continuing to grow your portfolio. At this level, tax efficiency is critical. Here are the key strategies:

At this level, tax planning becomes crucial. Use ISAs, pensions, and even investment vehicles such as 

 to reduce your taxable income and so grow your wealth more efficiently.

With more complex financial needs, it's important to have a comprehensive financial plan that includes investments, tax strategy, estate planning, and retirement. A professional advisor can help create a long-term plan tailored to your goals. 

 can help you find an advisor that’s right for you, simply click the orange button below to 

Property remains one of the most reliable ways to build wealth in the UK. With your salary, you could consider buying additional properties or investing in real estate funds to add further diversification to your portfolio.

Many high-income earners choose to give back through charitable donations. Not only is it morally rewarding, but you can also benefit from 

At this stage, it’s important to think about passing wealth on to future generations. 

, can help ensure your wealth is preserved no matter what for your more youthful, loved ones, while minimising taxes and administrative costs.

If you have high aspirations for your wealth level, check out our article 

No matter your income level, there are always strategic ways to make the most of your paycheck. Whether you're just starting out or you're already growing significant wealth, taking a proactive approach to savings, investments, and financial planning will set you on the path to financial success. By prioritising the right financial goals, making smart investment choices, and avoiding common pitfalls, you can maximise your earning potential and build 

To maximise your salary and investments, Compare Wealth Managers offers a free service to connect you with a tailored wealth advisor. Click the orange button to "Start Comparing" now or explore our 5-star 

The Ultimate Money Guide for £30k, £50k, £100k, £150k and £250k+ Earners

Each week, we provide you with the latest news that may impact the market and, consequently, your investments. Stay informed with Compare Wealth Managers. Here’s what investors should know:

British Solar Power Surges Past 2024 Total

, by mid-August, the UK had already generated 14.08 TWh of solar electricity, surpassing the entire 2024 figure. That’s enough to power 5.2 million homes, with capacity up 20% year-on-year. With record sunshine and growing capacity, solar is becoming a cornerstone of Britain’s energy transition.

Utility-scale solar and storage projects are drawing strong institutional inflows.

Renewables and clean-tech firms are gaining relative value under policy support.

Battery storage and grid upgrades present new investable themes.

Solar aligns with ESG, infrastructure, and long-duration growth portfolios.

UK Construction Hits Steepest Decline Since Covid

, UK construction activity fell sharply in July, with the sector’s PMI dropping to 44.3 from 48.8 in June, its steepest decline since the pandemic. Housebuilding bore the brunt, raising concerns over supply shortages and the government’s housing targets.

Supply constraints may push property prices higher.

Slowing new builds could reshape mortgage demand.

Fewer completions could boost rental yields, though with more regulatory risk.

Some investors are reallocating toward infrastructure, REITs, or alternatives.

, retail investors in the UK now rank defence and military industries ahead of AI as a growth theme. Rolls-Royce and BAE Systems have posted double-digit gains, as rising budgets and geopolitical volatility strengthen the sector’s appeal.

Defence offers a hedge against cyclical and tech volatility.

New “future of defence” ETFs provide easier diversified entry.

Increased NATO and UK commitments underpin long-term order books.

Sterling strength versus dollar-based defence revenues shapes allocations.

FTSE 100 Index: 9,312.73, up 3.53 points (+0.04%) 

Brent Crude Oil: $67.76 per barrel, up $0.09 (+0.13%) 

This brief is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Always consult a qualified adviser before making investment decisions.

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Stuart Gray

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Articles from author

What to Do with the Money: Smart Post-Sale Planning for Business Owners

The Ultimate Money Guide for £30k, £50k, £100k, £150k and £250k+ Earners

Weekly Market Brief: 16th-22nd August 2025

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Stuart Gray

Bio

Articles from author

What to Do with the Money: Smart Post-Sale Planning for Business Owners

The Ultimate Money Guide for £30k, £50k, £100k, £150k and £250k+ Earners

Weekly Market Brief: 16th-22nd August 2025

Start your journey to your Financial well-being

FIND OUT MORE

LEGAL

CONTACT US

Start your journey to your
Financial well-being