CHOOSE A LESSON

Get started today – even just half an hour could make a world of difference. 

Work through the modules one by one, or pick and choose the ones you need.

Pension Basics

1 chapter

What are pensions, how do they work, and what forms do they come in?

Go to lesson

Pensions and tax

2 chapters

Putting money into your pension can help you save on tax. Find out how.

Go to lesson

Am I on track?

1 chapter

Learn what you'll need to save to prepare for your retirement.

Go to lesson

Your pension investments

1 chapter

Why are pensions invested, and where does your money go?

Go to lesson

Keeping your pension safe

1 chapter

Learn to spot the signs of a pension scam and keep your money safe.

Go to lesson

Combining pensions

1 chapter

Find out how to consolidate your pensions - it could make life easier.

Go to lesson

Your retirement options

1 chapter

Explore ways you can take your pension savings when you are able to access them.

Go to lesson

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

  • Pension transfers (sometimes referred to as pot consolidation) may allow you to combine some or all of your defined contribution pensions in one place. Consolidating your pension means fewer statements to keep an eye on, along with fewer and potentially lower charges.

    But there are a number of things to consider before you transfer. You need to be aware of any guarantees or features you may lose if you transfer, and you should also compare the charges and investment range. Your existing provider may apply an exit charge for transferring out or, if you are in with-profits they may apply a 'market value reduction' for leaving early.

  • When you start saving for your future it's important to consider how much money you should save. Scottish Widows research recommends that people should be paying a minimum of 15% of their salary into their pension to allow for adequate savings in retirement. Find out more in our 2024 retirement report.

  • You can use our interactive Meet Your Future Self Tool. This lets you see what you could look like at retirement, what the value of your pension could be and how much you may need to pay in each month.

  • Your pension is likely to be one of your biggest assets so it's no wonder why scammers are often trying different ways to gain access to people's retirement savings. There are various tips on how to spot a pension scam and what steps to take in case you are worried you are being targeted.

RELATED TOOLS

Explore tools to help you take control of your finances,

from cutting down debt to building a monthly budget.

 

Scottish Widows Tools and Calculators

Scottish Widows Pension Options Calculator

Calculate and compare your options for pension pots over £ 5,000.

 

View tool

Scottish Widows Tax Calculator

Taking it all or part of it as cash? Find out how much tax you could pay

 

View tool

Scottish Widows Paying More Calculator

Calculate the benefits of increasing payments to your workplace pension.

 

View tool

Scottish Widows Pension Payments Calculator

Find out 'who pays what' to your workplace pension.

 

View tool

Meet your future self Tool

See what your future looks like to help you plan for retirement

 

View tool

Scottish Widows Your Future Lifestyle Tool

What might life be like in retirement and how much could you get?

RELATED VIDEOS

How does a workplace pension work?

How much should I save for retirement?

Will my pension be enough for retirement?

6 Tips to make the most of your pension

SUPPORT FOR DIFFICULT TIMES

Life is rarely straightforward. But learning to deal with stress can help your mental and physical health, and improve your financial wellbeing. Explore our topics to find the support you need.

View topics

Provided by:

Mental Health UK logo
Macmillan Cancer Support logo