If you thought your pension was just your retirement savings then think again. 

As well as ensuring your financial certainty when you want to stop working, a pension is a great way to support future generations. This is because defined contribution pensions are one of the most tax-efficient ways of passing on your wealth. 

No tax troubles 

Unlike Individual Savings Accounts (ISAs), pensions usually sit outside your estate for Inheritance Tax (IHT) purposes. This means that the money inside your defined contribution pension can be passed onto your loved ones without any IHT going to the taxman. 

Pass it on 

It’s no secret that many of today’s young people are facing financial pressures. Alongside your wisdom, a tax-efficient gift of a pension might be one of the best things you can pass along to the next generation. 

Even better, your loved ones will usually inherit the pension itself rather than the money inside it. This means they can continue to benefit from all the tax advantages, including tax-free investment growth. There is the separate option of starting a pension plan, within limits, for a child, rather than (or in addition to) leaving them yours. 

Of course, passing a pension on might not be the best choice for everyone. We’re here to help you. 

The value of investments can go down as well as up and you may not get back the full amount you invested. The past is not a guide to future performance and past performance may not necessarily be repeated. The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) does not regulate Will writing, tax and trust advice and certain forms of estate planning.