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[Lawyer37]

It’s understandable to be cautious when something sounds too good to be true, especially when it comes to free services like estate planning. However, after reviewing Viva Planning’s website, I found some useful details that should help ease your concerns.

Their website includes a business number and a link to their listing on Companies House, which is a good indicator of legitimacy. Upon checking the Companies House page, I found the following information:

Company Name: VIVA FACILITIES MANAGEMENT LIMITED
Company Number: 12811391
Company Status: Active
Incorporated on: 13 August 2020
Accounts:
Next accounts made up to 31 January 2024, due by 31 October 2024
Last accounts made up to 31 August 2022
Confirmation Statement:
Next statement due by 23 April 2025 (last statement dated 9 April 2024)
Nature of Business (SIC):
69109 – Activities of patent and copyright agents; other legal activities not elsewhere classified
The nature of business under 69109 is correct for estate planners and legal activities not elsewhere classified, which covers services such as estate planning. Everything looks fully above board, and the company is operating actively and within its legal requirements.

In short, based on the review of their legal registration, the company appears to be legitimate and compliant with regulations.

[Lawyer37]

I’m sorry to hear about your situation, and I understand how concerning this must be for you. Legally, under the Care Act 2014, your home cannot be forcibly sold to pay for care fees as long as you, the spouse, are still living in it. The value of the property is disregarded during means testing for care fees while a spouse or partner remains living in the home.

However, local authorities may place what is known as a deferred payment agreement or a lien on the property. This means that while they won’t require the sale of the home now, they can recover care costs from the value of the home when it is eventually sold, typically after both spouses have passed away or if the property is no longer the primary residence of the spouse.

It’s important to explore ways to protect your home and ensure your assets are safeguarded. Each case is unique, and it’s always best to get advice specific to your situation.

For more detailed guidance and to explore your options, I would recommend arranging a free estate planning review to get accurate answers based on your circumstances. Click here to request your free estate planning review.

[Lawyer37]

A Capital Protection Living Trust is designed to protect your property while you are alive, unlike a ‘death trust’ that activates after passing. This trust can help safeguard your home from bankruptcy, debts, and care fees. Managing the trust can seem complex since you can set rules about how your wishes should be carried out, often ensuring the home stays within the family and is protected from issues like divorce in future generations. I’d strongly recommend speaking to an estate planner to understand how it works for your specific situation. We can arrange a free estate planning review for you if you’re interested—just request one through this link: Request a free estate planning review

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