Seek out free guidance on pension freedom

The new pension freedoms which were introduced in April mean people over 55 who have a defined contribution pension, can now take their pension savings as an annuity, cash or flexibly over time.

Citizens Advice has helped people understand a range of options about their pensions in the last six months, all depending on their circumstances and wants for retirement.

A 55 year old man visited Pension Wise as he was unsure about the new pension freedoms.

He had heard you could now cash in your pension pot and wanted to explore his options. After his Pension Wise appointment, the man decided to take a 25% tax-free lump sum of his pension and flexibly access the rest.

Ciaran McAnespy, Pension Wise Guidance Specialist at Mid and East Antrim Citizens Advice Bureau said: “To book a Pension Wise appointment, you can visit your local Citizens Advice or call Ballymena on 02825655970 or Antrim on 02894428176.

For further information, and to find out how to book telephone appointments, you can also visit the Pension Wise website at www.pensionwise.gov.uk, alternatively, you can make a to call the national number 0300 330 1001.