When it makes sense to talk to someone
Pensions are one of the more consequential parts of UK personal finance, and frankly one of the more confusing. A specialist adviser is worth talking to if you're:
- Approaching retirement and weighing drawdown vs annuity vs a mix
- Considering consolidating multiple workplace pensions into a SIPP
- Looking at a defined benefit transfer (regulated advice is required above £30k)
- Maximising contributions using carry-forward or salary sacrifice
- Planning around the lifetime allowance and inheritance tax considerations
- Setting up retirement income for the first time
What actually matters when choosing one
Not every financial adviser is right for pension work. The things worth checking:
- FCA authorisation. Check on the FCA register
- Pension Transfer Specialist (PTS) qualification if you're thinking about a DB transfer
- Transparent fee structure structure - avoids product commission conflicts
- Minimums that match your pot size. Don't pay for sophistication you don't need
- Experience with your situation. NHS, expat, defined benefit - these are different worlds
How we match on pensions
Tell us about your pension situation. We'll send you up to three advisers whose specialism, fees, and minimums fit. You get a free one-hour discovery call with any that interest you. No obligation.