19/09/2005: Pension Simplification

The biggest shake up to retirement planning takes effect on 6th April 2006 (A day). From that date all the old rules which have been built up over many years will be swept away, offering many opportunities to clients. Much of the fine detail surrounding the new legislation is yet to be announced, and as it is we hope to bring you it hot of the press.

However, there will be people who might like to take advantage of the current rules which do offer better opportunities before A day than leaving it until afterwards. Clients with executive pension schemes, small self administered schemes and retirement annuity contracts (personal pensions taken out before 1988), may well find that an initial discussion with an adviser may be of benefit. There are a whole host of issues arising out of the legislation and to see if it affects you give us a call or visit the technical pages on this site under pension simplification.

Added on 15:19.

19/09/2005: Is your pension scheme safe?

Recent legislation imposed on companies and poor investment returns of recent years has meant that a number of company schemes organised on a final salary basis are showing deficits. If your scheme is one of them you may like to talk to a pensions expert to determine what your action should be. Give us a call on 01324 832715.

Added on 15:18.