Pension pot advice from Mid Ulster Citizens Advice Bureaus

Following the introduction of new pension freedoms in April 2015, Mid Ulster Citizens Advice, Dungannon and Cookstown offices, are now offering guidance through the government’s Pension Wise service.
Advice on how to treat your pension potAdvice on how to treat your pension pot
Advice on how to treat your pension pot

If you are over 50 and have a defined contribution pension, you can now buy an annuity, take all your pension out in one go or withdraw it bit by bit and leave some of it invested.

You can also mix and match your options – for example taking out just some and using the rest to buy an annuity.

Usually you will be able to take out 25% of your pension tax free and the rest will be added to your other income in that year and taxed at your marginal rate.

Pension Wise is free and impartial government open to those approaching retirement or over 50, seeking guidance.

The service aims to allow pension savers to understand their options,” said Conagh McCann, Pension Wise Guidance Specialist for Cookstown.

“Knowing how you’ll secure a retirement income is one of the most important decision’s you’ll ever make.

“Your choice could determine the amount of income you’ll receive for the rest of your life, which is why it’s so crucial to fully understand the options available.”

Cookstown Citizens Advice face-to-face appointments can be arranged by contacting your local Citizens Advice on the telephone number provided.

Citizens Advice Managers, Sharon Dillon and Andrea Bedell, welcomed the guidance provision and were pleased to be able to further enhance the service offered across the Mid Ulster area.

“As a trusted, independent charity, Citizens Advice is in a unique position to deliver face to face pensions guidance.

“We have many years experience working at the heart of communities, helping people get to grips with their finances, so it is a natural fit for us to help people understand their pension options and make choices for their future,” said Paul Casey, Pension Wise Guidance Specialist in Dungannon.

Citizens Advice said: “Being a free and impartial service, we will not tell people what to do with their money but give them a greater understanding of their options and empower them to make their own decisions.”

If you are 50 or over and have a defined contribution pension pot, contact your local Citizens Advice office on the numbers above to arrange an appointment to discuss your options.

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