Personal Recommendation Anyone ?

LastMinute_2

I got a letter through the door with the summary of the pension I had with my previous company ... I've got six months to get something in place so I can transfer this fund, otherwise I only get back what I put in (and after tax and other deductions, it's almost worthless!).

So I'm now trying to get a pension sorted and struggling under the weight of options and lack of time :-(

Even trying to find a local IFA is a complete shot in the dark (I've tried unbiased.co.uk) - so wondered if anyone can recommend an IFA in the Berkshire area (near Reading) - especially related to pensions.

Many thanks !

EdInvestor

If you need something fast it's very easy to open a low cost SIPP online:

here are a couple of discount providers, you save on charges too.

https://www.hargreaveslansdown.co.uk (best for funds, also does shares)

https://www.sippdeal.co.uk ( best for shares, also does funds)

Then just tell your company to transfer in the pension.

You can always transfer it elsewhere if you need to later.

Note with a SIPP the money will go into the cash account and then you have to decide how to invest it, ie x amount in this fund, y amount in that fund etc.

It's a good way to learn about investment.

LastMinute_2

Thanks Ed,

I think SIPP's may be a bit complex/dangerous for me though :-)

From the digging I've done so far, I think a personal pension may be the best bet but need some help in finding something suitable and choosing the best funds.

dunstonh

SIPPs are higher cost and higher maintenance. However, the investment options are desirable for those that know what they want and know what to do. If you dont use the features and options of a SIPP, you will end up paying more in charges. Something that the FSA has highlighted recently.

Personal pensions are a good half way house with access to better funds as well as the cheap stakeholder funds. You can mix and match what you want.

Even trying to find a local IFA is a complete shot in the dark (I've tried unbiased.co.uk) - so wondered if anyone can recommend an IFA in the Berkshire area (near Reading) - especially related to pensions.

https://www.unbiased.co.uk would have hundreds in that area. Make sure you are not filtering by qualification as that filter is highly flawed (pick a qualification that was only introduced 3 months ago and you wont get any responses. It will not show advisers with an equal or higher qualification to the one you have chosen).