Using your pension
You’ve worked for it, now enjoy it
Some tips on taking your pension
You’re close to retirement, now you just have to work out what to do with your pension. We’ll take you through the different ways you can take your money. And give you some pointers on how to make it go further.
But first, you should understand how to keep your pension pot safe, scammers may try to tempt you with offers of accessing your pension funds before you’re allowed to. Be wary of cold calls or anyone pressuring you to make a quick decision to cash in your pension. Find out more about pension scams.
Manage your pension online
Log in to your MyAviva account to see your pension details and manage any changes. If you haven’t registered for an account yet, you’ll need your pension policy number to hand.
Manage your workplace pension online
If you have a workplace pension with an account number starting with "GS", or a membership number starting with "F", register or log into MyWorkplace.
Ways to take your money
Taking your pension in cash
See the impact of withdrawing your pension money as one lump sum – and what you can do instead.
Withdrawing part of your pension
There are a few different ways to take your money as you approach retirement. See your options on withdrawing part of your pension money.
Mix and match your retirement options
Choosing a few retirement options (rather than just one) could help you get the retiree lifestyle you’re after.
Leave your money where it is for now
Not touching your money right away could make a difference to the size of your pension pot.
When do annuities make sense?
You can use all or part of your pension pot to buy a guaranteed income for life.
Should I get financial guidance or advice?
Financial guidance or advice can be a huge help when it comes to money matters. See how our experts can help you plan your retirement.
Give our pension calculator a go
This handy tool is designed to give you an idea of just how much your pension might be worth when you decide to retire.
What we offer
See how we can help you get the most out of your retirement.
Annuity
It’s a way of using your pension pot to buy a guaranteed income for life – just like having a regular salary.
Income drawdown
It’s a flexible way of using your pension – taking it as and when you need it.
Read more articles on your pension and retirement
Changes to the normal minimum pension age
The age that you can start taking your pension is changing from 55 to 57 from 6th April 2028. Find out more about the change here.
Pensions for the self-employed: what you need to know
Don’t let saving for your future slip any further down your priority list: here’s what you need to know about paying into a pension if you’re self-employed. Capital at risk.
Bonus pension sacrifice: paying your bonus into your pension
Bonus pension sacrifice is when you pay all or some of your bonus into your pension plan. Find out more here.
My pension is losing money. What should I do?
If your pension is losing money, understanding how pension investments work can help ease your fears.
Checking your National Insurance record for gaps
Discover how you can close the gap if you have missed contributions.
Should I combine my pensions into one pot?
Transferring all your pensions into one could save time and provide a clearer picture when you’re making retirement plans. Capital at risk.
Tax relief, allowances, and SIPPs
We’ll get you up to speed on allowances and tax rules that could boost your pension pot.
What happens to your pension when you leave a job?
Explore the options available for your pension after leaving a job, from transfers to consolidation.