The truth about early pensions

Before you pounce on the latest deal to get your retirement funds early, find out what it entails.

12:49 17 December 2013

It can be difficult to work until your target age before retiring. There are many scenarios that can make it difficult, or even impossible. Before you take an early retirement though, think about a few points:

• Most situations will not actually allow you to access your cash earlier than age 55. Some scenarios such as certain medical issues may be the exception.

 

• Accessing funds before the allotted age can incur expensive penalty charges.

 

• Taxes may be assessed in addition to any penalties that are charged.

 

• You can use your pension fund once, but there may be little or no income upon retirement.

 

• All the consequences of taking your retirement early may not be disclosed.

 

• Many companies may target individuals to transfer pensions, take pension loans, or select pension liberation.

 

• Income drawdown is not the same thing as taking an early pension.

 

• Early pension withdrawal needs to be reported to HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC).

 

If you are approached by someone with an offer to retrieve the funds in your pension before you have reached the age of 55, it is best to consult with a professional before making any decisions.

A professional will be able to disclose the potential risks and consequences of removing funds, how to avoid lower income in the future, and whether or not it will be in your best interest to take your funds from your early pension.

Remember that not all offers of a pension transfer are legitimate and may be someone trying to access your information so he or she can gain fraudulent access to your funds. Be wary of anyone proactively contacting you, and always ask for information about a company so you can research and call them back. If it is a legitimate offer, they should be happy to provide contact information so you can call back.