Navigating multiple pensions

Simplifying financial management, lowering charges and increasing future funds

You may have worked with several employers throughout your career, accumulating multiple pension plans. This can also apply if you’ve been self-employed or a contractor, resulting in personal pensions.

While multiple pensions can be administratively challenging to manage, they could also be financially draining due to high fees or subpar investment performance. What is a potential solution? Pension consolidation.

This strategy can simplify financial management, lower charges and increase future funds. However, it has potential pitfalls, so seeking professional financial advice is crucial. Let’s delve into pension consolidation and what needs to be considered.

The upside of pension consolidation

Managing multiple pensions can be a daunting task. Imagine tracking the investment performance, charges and annual statements for five different pensions. This can be overwhelming and time-consuming for many. Therefore, transferring pensions to a single provider can significantly simplify your financial administration.

Moreover, you’re likely paying administrative fees for each pension. This might not be the most cost-effective approach, especially when dealing with providers who have outdated and uncompetitive charging structures. These fees can affect your investment returns, eventually reducing your retirement funds. By consolidating your pensions, you could save on these charges.

However, pay attention to the performance of each pension fund while focusing on fees. Some of your pensions might be underperforming, and shifting to a different scheme could offer better growth potential.

Assessing charges and performance is more complicated, so we’re here to help. We can thoroughly evaluate your pensions and guide you on the best course of action.

Potential pitfalls of pension consolidation

Consolidating your pensions may have downsides if it means giving up valuable benefits and guarantees. Here are some key features you should consider. One of the most significant risks associated with pension consolidation is the potential loss of defined benefits. These benefits often come with older pension schemes, including guaranteed annuity rates and spouse or dependents’ pensions. Consolidating pensions could mean giving up these benefits, potentially resulting in lower income during retirement.

Before consolidating, checking whether your existing pensions carry exit fees is crucial. These charges can sometimes outweigh the benefits of consolidating, particularly if they are substantial.

Additionally, while having all your pensions in one place might make them easier to manage, it could also lead to a need for more diversification. If all your pension savings are invested in the same funds, you could put your retirement savings at a higher risk.

Securing a more comfortable future for you and your family

The funds you’ve accumulated over the years could be substantial, and a simple decision could jeopardise your future financial security. Conversely, making the right decision could secure a more comfortable future for you and your family. We’re here to guide you, ensuring you make informed decisions with your money.

Do you require further information or wish to discuss your options?

Recognising these benefits and guarantees can be challenging, so having your pension plans reviewed by a professional financial adviser is crucial. The decision to consolidate your pensions should not be taken lightly. Please don’t hesitate to contact us if you require further information or wish to discuss your options. Your financial future is our priority.

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 ADVICE.

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.