In recent years the pensions industry has become more advanced in terms of the flexibility of investments available and the structure of the actual pension arrangements.

This is an area of constant change and we recommend regularly reviewing your pension provision to plan for a secure and enjoyable retirement.

Self-Invested Personal Pensions (SIPPs)

A Self-Invested Personal Pension (SIPP) is a tax-efficient wrapper within which a wide range of investments can be held. SIPPs have the same tax benefits and regulations as conventional personal pension plans but have control over the investment choice – each SIPP is unique to the individual. Otherwise, it operates in the same way as a conventional personal pension in respect of contributions and eligibility, for tax purposes. A SIPP must appoint a scheme administrator, usually the recognised product provider.

The complex nature of a SIPP means that it is not suitable for all investors. Often, the benefits of ‘self-investment’ are only advantageous to people with very large funds and/or investors with some level of sophistication when it comes to investment decisions. Often, there are additional charges for arranging and dealing within a SIPP and these charges would erode smaller funds quickly.

The benefits of using a SIPP include being able to invest in:
– Stocks and shares listed or dealt on an Inland Revenue recognised stock exchange, including AIM
– Stock exchanges that are not recognised by HMRC
– Unit trusts, Open Ended Investment Companies (OEICs)
– Warrants, covered warrants
– Government stock and fixed interest stock
– Unquoted shares
– Commercial property
– Property funds.

We will be able to provide more details and make a recommendation based on your circumstances.

Pensions are a long-term investment. You may get back less than you put in. Pensions can be and are subject to tax and regulatory change, therefore the tax treatment of pension benefits can and may change in the future.