What is a final salary pension?
A defined benefit (DB) pension pays you a guaranteed income in retirement based on your salary and years of service. Unlike a DC pension, the income is not dependent on investment performance. For example: 1/60th of final salary per year of service — after 30 years you'd receive half your final salary for life, with inflation-linked increases.
What is a CETV?
The Cash Equivalent Transfer Value is a lump sum representing what the scheme calculates your future guaranteed pension is worth today. CETVs are typically 20–30x the annual pension (a £10,000/year pension might offer a CETV of £200,000–£300,000). The multiple fluctuates with interest rates and scheme funding.
Why might someone transfer?
Common reasons: poor health and desire to access capital quickly; wanting to pass wealth to non-dependants (DB pensions typically don't); flexibility for tax-efficient income management; concerns about the employer's financial strength. However, for most people the guaranteed income of a DB pension is worth more than the flexibility of a DC pot.
Is financial advice required?
Yes — if the CETV exceeds £30,000, you are legally required to take advice from an FCA-authorised pension transfer specialist. This protects you from making an irreversible decision without fully understanding the consequences. A specialist will assess whether the CETV is adequate and whether transfer is in your individual best interest.
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