Can My Personal Pension Lose Money?

Defined Contribution Pensions

If you hold a money purchase pension, there is a risk that the fund(s) your pension invests in could fall in value depending on how the underlying assets perform. Before investing in a particular fund, look at the track record of the fund and sector. This will give you an indication of the volatility of the sector. Remember that past performance is no guarantee of future performance.

If you are unsure it often makes sense to speak to a specialist pension adviser. If you’re concerned about your pension losing money before retirement then your adviser may suggest less volatile funds, such as a bond or cash fund (some pension schemes include what is called ‘lifestyling’ which automatically reduces the risk profile of your funds as you approach retirement).

If your pension provider can’t pay you because it’s in financial trouble, provided it is authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), you can get compensation from the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS).

Final Salary Pensions

Pension benefits held in a final salary scheme are protected by the Pension Protection Fund (PPF) which means you will benefit from pension compensation payments if your employer runs into financial difficulties. You’ll usually get 100% compensation if you’ve reached the scheme’s pension age, or 90% if you’re below the scheme’s pension age up to a cap.