There are a number of crucial differences between pensions and ISAs, which are important to be aware of as you’re building a financial plan. Firstly, you can only get tax relief on pensions. But you can’t access your pension savings until you’re aged 55, whereas with a cash or stocks and shares ISA, you can access the funds any time you like.
Let’s look at what this means when you’re choosing which option is best for you?
Well, the fact that there’s no restriction on when you can access money from an ISA means it gives you considerable flexibility, such as the ability to use money to fund hobbies and pastimes, or major projects such as setting up a new business. So, if you have more short-term financial and lifestyle goals in mind, this is an option worth exploring, especially as you can earn a bit of interest on top of your savings.
By contrast, pensions are a more long-term investment, and if you’re in work, you will be automatically enrolled into a workplace pension scheme to which your employer must contribute. That’s effectively free money being put into your pension pot that’s being invested wisely to fund your retirement.
Another issue you might wish to think about is Inheritance Tax rules. ISA investments will form part of your estate for Inheritance Tax purposes unless they’ve been left to an exempt beneficiary such as your spouse or civil partner. However, pensions don’t count towards your estate when you die, so you can leave your retirement savings to your chosen beneficiaries, such as family members, without it being subject to Inheritance Tax.
The fact that each offers different advantages means it’s a good idea to make use of both ISAs and pensions when you’re putting together a financial plan. The amount you invest in each will depend on your personal financial circumstances but using a combination of both allows you to benefit from a hugely tax-efficient means of saving and investing.
But you should always remember that the value of your investments can go down as well as up, depending on the economic circumstances, which could influence the decisions you take. That’s why it’s so important to get professional financial advice from firms like ourselves who can talk you through all the options available to you.
