What is a CETV and do I need one?
A cash equivalent transfer value (CETV) is the amount you can transfer from a pension. You must work with a financial adviser if your defined benefit pension is worth £30,000 or more. They’ll use your CETV to work out how much you can transfer from your pension.
I’ve got a CETV
If your current pension provider has already given you a CETV, let your adviser know straight away. This can speed things up.
I don't have a CETV
Don’t worry if you haven’t got a CETV yet, your adviser will do this for you. Don’t ask for one in the meantime, this might slow things down.
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If you’re looking for defined benefit advice you can trust, we’re here to help.
None of our advisers work on commission for defined benefit advice – their focus is on giving best advice rather than selling products.
Choose an adviser that’s local to you, if you prefer to do things in person. Or speak to us online or over the phone – whatever suits you best.
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There's no cost for your first call with us, or for your first meeting with an adviser. We'll always be up-front with you about our fees, and there's no obligation to go ahead. So you can explore your options pressure-free.
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Defined benefit (DB) pensions versus defined contribution (DC) pensions
Discover the difference between these two types of pensions.
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What you need to know about defined benefit transfers
If you have a defined benefit pension, you may be able to transfer it into a defined contribution pension.
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Frequently asked questions
What is a defined benefit (DB) pension transfer?
A defined benefit transfer is when your DB pension is transferred to a defined contribution pension. You’ll need to get advice before transferring if your DB pension is worth £30,000 or more.
Will I still pay an advice fee if my adviser recommends against transferring my defined benefit (DB) pension?
This is still seen as financial advice, so there will still be a fee. Your adviser will have looked carefully at your DB pension to make sure transferring it would be in your best interests.
Is a defined benefit (DB) pension transfer my only option?
No, you're not necessarily tied to either transferring or keeping your DB pension. Your adviser might suggest transferring part of your pension. They'll talk through all the possibilities and recommend whatever they think is best for you.
What is a defined benefit (DB) pension plan?
A DB pension is a type of retirement income based on your salary and how long you've built up benefits in your employer's scheme. You might hear them being called a final salary or career average pension plan. You can read our article on defined benefit pensions if you need more information.
What’s the difference between a defined benefit (DB) pension and a defined contribution (DC) pension?
The main difference between these two types of pension is how they pay out at retirement. With a DB pension, it’s usually based on your salary and how long you’ve had the pension for. A DC pension income is based on how much you and your employer pay in, and how well the money invested performs. Read our article about the differences in more detail.
What are my options?
How can I get financial advice?
You can get our expert, personalised advice if you have £300,000 or more in total across all your pension and investment savings.
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What if I’m not ready to get advice?
If you don't have £300,000 or more in total across your pension and investment savings, or you're not sure financial advice is for you, don’t worry. We’ve got lots of helpful guides, tools and other information to help you manage your money.
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