Step 4: Arriving
The next chapter of your life is just around the corner – it’s time to make the most of your pension. Plan your retirement here.
Whether you still intend to take your money at your selected retirement age, or want to change it, then you should check that your moneys invested in a way that reflects how and when you plan to take the money. You’ve worked hard and have put some of the money you’ve earned into your pension – now’s the time to make decisions to enable you to enjoy the next chapter of your life.
You should consider how and when you want to retire, so that means taking time to think about things like:
- How much money will you have?
- How long will it need to last?
- Is your chosen retirement age right for you?
- How much your State Pension could be?
- What are your options?
- What your life will look like in retirement – how will you spend your time? Does your chosen retirement option work in line with your plans?
It’s a really good idea to get guidance at this stage if you haven’t already done so. Pension Wise is a government service from MoneyHelper that offers free, impartial guidance about your defined contribution pension options. You can book an appointment once you are aged 50 or over.
You can also choose to receive personalised advice from a financial adviser. You can find one in your local area at unbiased.co.uk.
If you don’t wish to find your own adviser, we have teamed up with LV= who provide a telephone retirement advice service. You can find more information on the Advice at retirement website.
Advisers usually charge for their services. You may be able to pay for financial advice directly from your pension pot. Ask your financial adviser for details.
Watch the video for information about preparing for retirement including defined contribution pension options.
Video transcript (pdf)
More in this section
You’re now deciding how to take your money. Here are a few things you should consider to help you with your planning.
You have the flexibility to decide when and how to use your savings.
It's important to ensure your pension pot is invested in a way that matches how you plan to take your money.
A free and impartial service backed by the government who will help you make sure that the decisions you're making are the right ones for you.