Reviewing Pensions

Most people change jobs several times, and many end up with a handful of pensions they have not looked at in years. A pension review shows you exactly what you have, what it is costing you and whether it is still working towards the retirement you want.

What I look at

• Charges – older plans can carry fees that quietly eat into your savings over time.
• Investments – whether your money is invested in line with your goals, timescale and attitude to risk.
• Valuable benefits – some older plans include guaranteed annuity rates, protected tax-free cash or other features that could be lost if you move.
• Flexibility – whether your plan will let you take money out in the way you want when you retire.
• Death benefits – who would receive your pension and whether your nominations are up to date.

Should you combine your pensions?

Bringing pensions together can make them easier to manage and sometimes cheaper, but it is not always the right answer. I will compare your existing plans against the alternatives and only recommend a change where it is clearly in your interests. If keeping a pension where it is makes more sense, I will tell you.

What you receive

After your free initial consultation, I will research your plans and set out my findings and recommendations in a clear written report. I will talk you through it and answer any questions – there is no pressure to act, and my fees are agreed with you upfront. I work with clients across Stirling, Bridge of Allan, Dunblane and the wider Central Scotland area.

Please note: I do not advise on defined benefit (final salary) pension schemes.