Monthly Archives: May 2023

Complex task of maintaining a comfortable lifestyle

Grappling with balancing retirement income against the constant erosion caused by inflation

Achieving financial security in retirement takes significant planning and foresight. Many retiree pensioners grapple with balancing their retirement income against the constant erosion caused by inflation. For those relying on a pension, this challenge can make the already complex task of maintaining a comfortable lifestyle seem even more daunting.

“Are you ready to retire?”

6 questions to ask yourself for a secure financial future

The concept of retiring is an attractive prospect for many people. Having the freedom to enjoy life and pursue hobbies or interests without the pressures of a 9-5 working life can be hugely appealing. However, it’s important to make sure that you have your finances planned out in order to make this dream of retirement achievable.

Working beyond State Pension age

Returning to employment after retiring due to increasing financial pressures

The rising cost of living due to inflation means that retired people must have enough savings to survive. This leaves many retirees in a precarious financial situation, as the value of their existing retirement funds is not keeping up with the rate of inflation. Even if they had saved diligently for their retirement years, the devaluation of their money can drastically reduce their purchasing power. This is leading many people to rethink their retirement plans.

Different levels of expenditure needed for retirement

Report highlights the challenges of reduced income and increased vulnerability

As retirement approaches, planning for the future becomes increasingly important. Many retirees who are currently living on a fixed income are being impacted by inflation, which can negatively impact their ability to make ends meet.

Abolition of the pension Lifetime Allowance

Significant changes that will affect retirement savings

Chancellor Jeremy Hunt’s first proper Budget 2023, on Wednesday 15 March, brought some welcome but unexpected changes to pension tax. The changes are designed to alleviate the impact of strict pension rules, which are believed by Mr Hunt to have had a negative impact on the country’s labour market.

Annual Allowance increased from £40,000 to £60,000

The amount you can contribute each year without incurring additional taxes

When making contributions to your pension, it’s important to keep in mind that there’s a limit to how much you can contribute each year without incurring additional taxes. This limit is known as the pension Annual Allowance.

Planning for your long term future

Think ahead at least two years before you plan to stop working

Pensions may not be the most exciting thing to think about, but they are an essential part of planning for your long-term future. In fact, your pension has the potential to be one of your most valuable assets, even more than your property. It’s something that could make a significant difference to your lifestyle in later life.

Investment growth and a guaranteed pension

Having trouble deciding between the two, there’s no need to choose just one?

Are you struggling to decide what to do with your pension pot? It’s an important decision that will impact your retirement for years to come. One option to consider is pension drawdown, which provides you with more freedom and flexibility in choosing your annual income. However, annuities offer a steady income and greater security.

Making informed decisions

Gap in pension benefits between men and women widens

For many women, the decision to work part-time often coincides with important career and childcare milestones. While pension contributions may not be the deciding factor for this decision, it’s important to understand the long-term impact on pensions. This knowledge is crucial for good financial planning.

Greater financial security in later life

Preparing for your future in a way that suits your needs

Retirement planning is not a one-size-fits-all system. Everyone has unique lifestyle choices, so it’s essential to prepare for your future in a way that suits your needs. Today’s savers face challenges like longer life expectancy and the shift from defined benefit pensions to defined contribution plans.