Retiring abroad & income tax on pension

Tom2023

I wonder if any one can help me. Intend to spend my retirement travelling around Europe. If I am out of the country for a whole tax year will I be able to claim back the income tax paid on my pension?

atush

you should be able to inform HMRC in advance of your leaving date (and give them your return date) so it isn't taxed at all?

Tom2023

That easy?

Will they ask me to prove I am abroad?

atush

They might, I have no idea. But as you will have booked at least outward accommodation/transport that part will be easy. They may need confirmation at the end of the year when you come back.

You'd also need to fill out forms or claim back tax on interest paid in any non wrapped accts.

TonkaTom

I don't think it is that easy. I read this in yesterday's Daily Telegraph.

It looks like you'd have to sell any former home in this country.

atush

Sorry but I have left the country and returned without this problem. Even got a refund of income tax already paid in the year we left as it was under the PA.

But rules may have changed. I do know many expats who don't pay tax on their pension and remain homeowners in the UK (where their property may be rented- they pay tax on this if over their PA).

Consult the HRMC website or ask this Q in some of the expat forums?