Lost Pensions worth £37 Billion
Many British retirement savers could retire two years earlier than they realise, according to a new piece of research from pensions advice firm Profile Pensions*.
This, says the firm, is because one in four over 55’s have lost track of their pension funds; a fact that helps to account for a significant proportion of the UK’s approximately 1.6 million unclaimed pension pots. It is estimated that these funds have a combined value of around £37 billion.
The situation is even worse for younger retirement savers, with three in ten 25-34 year-olds saying they have lost track of a pension. One in ten respondents were not sure whether they would be able to account for all their pensions.
The firm calculated the average value of missing pensions at around £23,000 per pension saver and estimated that those who have a missing pension would be able to retire, on average, two and a half years earlier, in the event that they were able to locate all their funds.
Tracing a Pension
Pensions form the bedrock of most peoples’ retirement strategies; it is vital, therefore, that savers are able to locate their savings so that they can plan appropriately and, if suitable, transfer and consolidate their pensions into a cheaper and more effective SIPP or QROPS plan – a strategy that may be particularly effective for those seeking expat pensions’ advice.
It is hoped that the impending introduction of the Pensions Dashboard will help to reduce the incidence of missing pensions by allowing savers to see all their funds in a single online platform location. The Dashboard was due to be introduced by 2019 but has been delayed by various factors, not least government’s preoccupation with Brexit and the temporary suspension of the Pensions Bill during December’s general election.
Expat Pensions Advice
Blacktower Financial Management has offices throughout Europe and North America. It also retains its original office in the UK.
As a fully regulated and independent firm, we are able to offer Expat Pension Advice to our clients to help them ensure that their pensions are invested in the way that best aligns with their situation and goals.
For more information about how we may be able to help you, contact your local office today.
Blacktower
120 Avenida Dr
Artero Guirao 2C
San Pedro Del Pinatar
30740, Murcia
Our office suite is easy to find on the main N332 through road of San Pedro del Pinatar with easy parking.
If you wish to make an appointment to discuss your own situation, please call 657 684 094 or email
keith.littlewood@blacktowerfm.com
Disclaimer:
The provision of information in this communication is not based on your individual circumstances and does not constitute investment advice. Blacktower makes no recommendation as to the suitability of any of the products or transactions mentioned.
* https://www.profilepensions.co.uk/infographic/lost-pension-treasures/ Accessed 17-02-2020