Planning for retirement is vital, and in the UK, saving into a pension scheme comes with a powerful incentive: tax relief. But navigate the rules around pension contributions, and you might stumble upon cryptic terms like “annual allowance” and “lifetime allowance.” Don’t worry, this guide will equip you with the knowledge to make informed decisions about your pension contributions.
- Tax Relief: You receive tax relief on pension contributions up to the higher of 100% of your UK taxable earnings* (subject to tapering and annual allowances) or ￡3,600 per year. This means the government essentially reduces your tax bill by the amount you contribute.
- Company contributions: If you own your own limited company or if contributions are made by a company on your behalf then the company can contribute up to ￡60,000 regardless of your earnings but the tax relief is granted as a deductible tax expense so the tax benefit is applied as a reduction in corporation tax against the companies profits- The owner of the pension does not pay income tax on that company contribution and as such they have received immediate tax relief
- *Annual Allowance: This is the most you can save into your pension per year before facing tax charges. Currently, it stands at ￡60,000, but be aware, for high earners (earning over ￡260,000), it gets tapered right down to ￡10,000 based on a formula.
- Carry Forward- You are able to reclaim any unused allowances for the previous 3 years (subject to tapering/allowances). Currently, this means you could effectively pay in ￡180,000 and receive tax relief at your highest marginal rate! (if you made this contribution on a personal basis it would cost you ￡144,000-this means you would receive an additional ￡36,000 in your pension from the government – furthermore you could reclaim any higher rate tax due via a tax return once the tax year has elapsed-subject to allowances)
- Lifetime Allowance: This is the total amount you can accumulate in your pension pots over your lifetime before additional tax charges apply. This allowance has been abolished from April 6th 2024, removing this concern for new contributions.
- Multiple Pensions: If you have several pension schemes, your annual allowance applies to all of them combined.
- Excess Contributions: Contributing above the annual allowance will result in tax charges. Carefully monitor your contributions to avoid this.
- Tapering for High Earners: If you’re a high earner, your annual allowance gets progressively smaller. Plan your contributions accordingly- seek advice where needed.
- Lifetime Allowance Removed: No new tax charges will apply based on exceeding the lifetime allowance.
By understanding these allowances, you can effectively manage your pension contributions and make informed decisions towards a secure financial future. Remember, pension planning is a marathon, not a sprint. Start early, contribute regularly, and don’t hesitate to seek help if needed. With the right financial planning, you can build a comfortable retirement nest egg and enjoy your golden years with peace of mind.
Please be advised that this article does not constiutue financial advice and if you are unsure on your allowances you should consult an independent financial adviser
