Transfer value from a defined benefit scheme

Are you a member of a defined benefit scheme and have the option to take a transfer value?

Option 1 Leave the preserved pension in the DB scheme.

Option 2 Take a transfer value.

What next? Before you make any decision the key items of information include:

  1. What will be your secure sources of income in retirement (State Pension, Property, Investments, Dividends, etc)

  2. What are your current deferred entitlement?

  3. Is the current transfer value being offered less than the 100% Minimum Funding Standard (MFS)?

  4. Is the transfer value an enhanced transfer value - there will normally be a time limit.

  5. Copy of latest actuarial valuation report. Is scheme failing to meet funding standard?

  6. What is the likelihood of a Section 50 reduction in benefits? The trustees could reduce the pension in payment via a Section 50 order.

  7. Is there a plan to ultimately wind up the scheme. Some interesting metrics include how many people are employed in the organisation ? how many in payment? deferred? current active members?

  8. Consider options in the event of untimely death or serious illness

Reasons NOT to take transfer value.

  • Belief that the pension promise from your employer will be honoured.

  • Transfer value being offered will not generate income required OR that available from your DB scheme

  • Potential for a higher transfer value if remain - some actuaries estimate that transfer value should increase 5-6% per annum. This is NOT guaranteed and value may fall.

Reasons to take the transfer value.

  • Belief that if you remain in the scheme you will not get the pension promised.

  • Solvency position of the scheme may deteriorate

  • Fear that bond yields will increase, this would have impact of reducing the transfer value offered (all things being equal)

  • An enhanced transfer value may not be offered again

  • Access to Approved Retirement Fund options

  • Early access to benefits, from age 50 onwards.

  • Investment choice and option to buy property.

Want to know more? We are available to discuss your options, and we look forward to hearing from you.

Our job is to help you choose a product and structure that will help you meet your goals.

telephone | 091441188 and/or email | office@nelsonlife.ie

RETIREMENT & PENSIONS |  INVESTMENTS | FINANCIAL PLANNING | LIFE INSURANCE

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