Got a pension? You need an LPA

Long retirements offer so much freedom, and longer lives are helping to contribute to the stretching out of our golden years in the UK.

But where some retirees are reaping the rewards of wise investments and sound financial advice, many people are unsure of the best course of action when it comes to accessing their hard-earned pensions.

Owing to the government’s many changes to the accessibility of our private pensions, there are many retirees who are looking to take out their money early to do the things they’ve always wanted to do.

While this is an exciting proposition and what many people have hoped to plan once they’ve finished working, a report published by Zurich UK has stated that around 80 per cent of retirees are potentially facing difficulties later in life due to failing to commit a Lasting Power of Attorney.

This simple process ensures that your money remains safe and secure, should you be unable to make these important decisions yourself at any point in the future.

While this is an uncomfortable discussion to have, it’s incredibly important and can ensure your financial security for the coming years, no matter how your situation changes.

Drawdown over annuities

The way people are drawing out their pensions has changed. Where once annuities were the favoured method of claiming a pension, individuals are now choosing the drawdown method.

This essentially means that managing income comes down to the individual. When complex decisions need to be made, this will also be dependent on the individual, making having a Lasting Power of Attorney or LPA even more important.

Why get an LPA now?

Organising a Lasting Power of Attorney now helps to make sure you’re ready for anything the future could hold. Here are our top reasons to make sure you’re covered by an LPA as soon as you begin drawing your pension.

You will secure yours and your family’s immediate future

By organising an LPA now, you’re putting safeguards in place that make sure your pension is secure and protected now and in the future.

Most people with LPAs find this peace of mind is in itself a worthwhile investment. Don’t let planning for the future become a burden.

Give yourself the power to make your own decisions

Waiting until you need an LPA can make it harder to create an agreement that suits your complex needs. Your pension is your money – don’t leave it until you might require support in making these important plans.

Open up your later-life conversation

Talking about your later life can be a difficult conversation. Don’t avoid it. Provisions for your care and security in later-life are important to set now, so that everything can be implemented as simply as possible.

Encouraging your family to enter into these conversations with you will also help them to prepare for the future, and enable them to understand your wishes better.If you’d like help with setting up your own LPA or would like to talk to our specialist Wills, Probate & LPA team today at 01282 433 241. Alternatively, you can send us an on-line enquiry at drnlaw.co.uk/contact and one of our team will be in touch shortly.