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How Personal Pensions work

Personal pensions can feel overwhelming when you're trying to understand all the rules and options. We can refer you to a specialist who can explain your options in relation to your circumstances.

As with all investments, the value and the income generated can fall as well as rise. This means you may not get back what you originally invested.

Tax treatment depends on individual circumstances and may change in future.

This information is for guidance only and does not constitute financial advice.

Investment and Pension advice is provided via a referral to a specialist.

How personal pensions work guide

When your workplace pension doesn’t feel like enough Looking at your pension statement and wondering if it’ll actually fund the retirement you’re hoping for is a worry that keeps many people awake. Personal pensions give you the chance to take more control and build something that feels more substantial for your future.

How personal pensions actually work:

  • You contribute from your take-home pay and the government automatically adds 25% tax relief
  • Your money gets invested in whatever you choose – from cautious funds to individual company shares
  • Everything grows tax-free inside the pension wrapper, no matter how much profit you make
  • At retirement you can take 25% as tax-free cash and the rest becomes taxable income
  • If you die, your pension usually passes to family without inheritance tax
  • You can contribute up to £60,000 annually or 100% of your earnings if that’s less

Every £80 you contribute becomes £100 through automatic tax relief. If you’re a higher rate taxpayer, you can claim even more back through your tax return. A specialist can explain how tax relief may apply to your circumstances.

If you're a higher or additional rate taxpayer (in England, Wales and Northern Ireland), or an intermediate, higher or advanced rate taxpayer (in Scotland) and paying into a personal or group personal pension, you can claim back additional tax relief through your self-assessment. You will need to include your pension contributions when you file your return.

Some people want simple ready-made portfolios they can forget about. Others want to pick individual funds or shares. Your pension provider offers both options. A specialist can help you consider what matches your comfort level.

Unlike final salary schemes where you get what you’re given, personal pensions put you in charge. When to retire, how to take your money, what to leave for family – a specialist can explain your options so you can make informed choices.

Personal pensions usually avoid inheritance tax when they pass to your family. This isn’t just about your retirement – it’s about looking after the people who matter most to you. The Government however has announced it will be changing the rules around Inheritance Tax and Pensions from 2027. From April 2027, your pension will form part of your Estate for Inheritance Tax purposes.

The value of your investments and any income from them can fall as well as rise. You may not get back the original amount you invested.


HM Revenue and Customs practice and the law relating to taxation are complex and subject to individual circumstances and changes which cannot be foreseen.

Common questions about personal pensions

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We can refer you to a specialist to discuss your personal pension options.