Pension management has changed in recent years. You no longer need the traditional pension where employers had to pay you after 40 years of service. Self-invested personal pensions (SIPPs) change everything as they give you more flexibility to select and manage your preferred investments. Some of the assets you can hold in SIPP include stocks and shares, exchange-traded funds (ETFs), bonds, commercial properties, etc. You can use online brokerage firms regulated by the FCA to take control of your pension savings.

All UK residents of ages 18-75 can have a SIPP account to manage their retirement savings. Whether you are employed or self-employed, SIPP allows you to invest up to 100% of your earnings in a tax year. The account is also available for retired and unemployed individuals who get to invest up to £3,600 annually.   

SIPPS Tax Rules

Investing in SIPP is tax-free while you are saving, meaning that there is no income tax relief on income generated by your investments. However, you will receive income tax relief on contributions, including 20% for the basic rate, 40% for a higher rate, and 45% for additional rates. Keep in mind that SIPP providers will claim the 20% tax relief from the government on your behalf. You will then claim the higher and additional rates through your annual tax returns. 

Note that you need to be at least 55 years old to start enjoying SIPP benefits. What’s more, SIPP offers a 25% tax-free lump sum. After that, any further withdrawals will be taxed subject to the amount you withdraw as income annually. 

Are SIPPs Suitable for You?

Besides opening a SIPPs account to manage your pension, you can also do so for your underage offspring. To fully benefit from this method of retirement saving, you need to have extensive knowledge about the financial markets. This will make it easier for you to identify the best investment assets that have more profitability. Since you need an online brokerage firm to manage your retirement investments. In this case, having knowledge about how they operate and choosing a suitable one goes a long way in giving you the best investment experience.  

Finding a reliable investment broker continues to be challenging for most individuals in the UK. The good news is that various expert financial analysts have spent over 200 hours of research to find the best trading platforms so that you do not have to go through the overwhelming research process. Alternatively, you can opt for a financial advisor if you can afford one. 

Simply put, managing SIPPs is not easy compared to the workplace pension, where an employer takes control of everything. This is because making investments doesn’t guarantee income, and with risks attached to them, you can lose your money in the process. So, prepare to take responsibility in case your investments don’t work out as expected. 

Conclusion

SIPPs continue to benefit many individuals with a complete understanding of the financial markets. Remember, find a SIPPs provider that complements your needs. If you are not ready to invest, you can hold your cash in a SIPP account while figuring out the best options. Note that diversifying your investment portfolio can significantly affect your pension’s performance. That being said, start your pension savings today with SIPPs. Also, ensure you invest with the best broker regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). With a solid plan, SIPP might just be what you need to set up your retirement.