There are many useful sources of financial advice available to those preparing for retirement or semi-retirement.

Why should I get advice?

When you’re coming up to retirement you have lots of decisions to make. Being a member of a defined benefit scheme gives you certainty over the amount of pension you will get. But you may have other pensions or investments to look at as well. Choosing the best way to fund your retirement can be one of the biggest decisions you make. So it’s good to get some help and advice.

Get some free help first

In June 2021, the Money and Pensions Service brought its three consumer services together under the new name, MoneyHelper. So, the Money Advice Service, The Pensions Advisory Service and Pension Wise now all come under MoneyHelper.

MoneyHelper is here to make your money and pension choices clearer. It provides impartial help, backed by government and free to use. Whatever your circumstances or plans, online or over the phone, you'll get clear money and pensions guidance, and pointers to trusted services if you need more support.

We recommend you use the Money and Pensions Service and consider taking financial advice to help you understand which pension option is most suitable to you.

Visit money helper.org.uk for more information

If you have additional voluntary contributions (AVCs) or other defined contribution (or money purchase) pensions elsewhere and are over 50, Pension Wise (part of MoneyHelper) offers free, impartial guidance about your options in relation to AVCs.

If you are over 50, you can call Pension Wise on 0800 138 3944 (+44 20 3733 3495 from overseas) between 8am and 6:30pm Monday to Friday to book an appointment or you can go to the MoneyHelper website and book online.

Find an independent financial adviser who specialises in retirement advice

Consider talking to a financial adviser who is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). MoneyHelper can also help you to find a retirement adviser with their retirement adviser directory.