Pension & retirement
Scott Miller
If you are thinking of accessing your pension, Scott Miller, one of Fairstone’s Independent Financial Advisers, takes you through the options and the potential implications.
A surprising 43% of individuals over 55 need to be made aware that they can withdraw 25% of their pension pot tax-free, according to recent research[1]. Knowledge could lead to better decision-making when it comes to accessing pension savings.
Similarly, 52% of those surveyed between the ages of 50 and 54 were also unaware of this rule, indicating a widespread lack of understanding about pension withdrawal options.
The study found that among the 57% of over-55s who know about the tax-free pension withdrawal option, 21% have already taken advantage of this benefit, while 9% plan to do so in the future.
Most individuals who plan to take their tax-free lump sum did or will do so at retirement (69%). However, 16% have made or intend to withdraw at different points during retirement.
The study emphasises the importance of understanding the various options available when withdrawing from your pension pot, including the 25% tax-free cash entitlement.
Considering factors such as whether to take the lump sum all at once or split withdrawals into smaller chunks over time and the potential implications and benefits of each approach are essential.
Typically, most people can withdraw 25% of their total pension pot tax-free, although this may vary depending on the type of pension plan and if you’ve exceeded your lifetime allowance. The remaining 75% is subject to Income Tax when withdrawn.
Generally, you can access your pension savings, including the tax-free lump sum, at age 55 (rising to 57 in 2028). In rare cases, you may be able to access your pension earlier due to ill health or a protected scheme.
This depends on your pension product and its terms. Taking smaller withdrawals over time can be beneficial in most cases, as it allows for potential growth and tax-efficiency.
It’s essential to consider the longevity of your pension savings throughout retirement. Taking too much too soon could result in running out of funds later in life. Delaying access to your savings may allow for additional growth.
Accessing your pension savings can impact state benefits, such as Universal Credit or Pension Credit. Additionally, taking a tax-free lump sum won’t affect the amount you can contribute to your pension plan, but accessing taxable income may reduce your annual allowance.
Understanding your pension withdrawal options and seeking professional guidance or advice will help you make informed decisions and maximise your retirement savings. To learn more about how we can help you, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
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Opinium conducted research among 2,000 UK adults aged 18+ between 12–16 May 2023 for Standard Life, part of Phoenix Results have been weighted to be nationally representative.
A PENSION IS A LONG-TERM INVESTMENT NOT NORMALLY ACCESSIBLE UNTIL AGE 55 (57 FROM APRIL 2028 UNLESS THE PLAN HAS A PROTECTED PENSION AGE).
THE VALUE OF YOUR INVESTMENTS (AND ANY INCOME FROM THEM) CAN GO DOWN AS WELL AS UP, WHICH WOULD HAVE AN IMPACT ON THE LEVEL OF PENSION BENEFITS AVAILABLE.
YOUR PENSION INCOME COULD ALSO BE AFFECTED BY THE INTEREST RATES AT THE TIME YOU TAKE YOUR BENEFITS.
THIS ARTICLE DOES NOT CONSTITUTE TAX OR LEGAL ADVICE AND SHOULD NOT BE RELIED UPON AS SUCH. TAX TREATMENT DEPENDS ON THE INDIVIDUAL CIRCUMSTANCES OF EACH CLIENT AND MAY BE SUBJECT TO CHANGE IN THE FUTURE. FOR GUIDANCE, SEEK PROFESSIONAL TAX ADVICE.
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For further information, please contact:
