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Will the Autumn Statement mean radical reform for pension contribution tax relief?

21st November 2016


As the Autumn Statement edges closer, the pre-announcement rumour mill is suggesting a radical reform of pension contribution tax relief is on the cards.

It is being rumoured that tax relief for pension contributions could soon be based on your age rather than the rate of income tax you pay

Autumn Statement
Whilst this idea may sound strange, it is quickly gathering speed that tax relief on pension contributions should become a government bonus based on (100 – your age) %. For example, if you are a 45 year-old higher rate taxpayer:

  • At present a gross pension contribution of £100 will normally mean that you receive £40 tax relief, so your net outlay is £60.
  • Under the proposed new rules, you would pay £60 into your pension and the government would provide a top up of 55% (100% – 45%), leaving you with a total in your pension pot of £93 (£60 + £60 x 55%).

The logic behind the proposal is that it would encourage contributions to be made to pensions at a younger age, meaning that the pension fund has more time to grow before it is drawn upon. The same goal of stimulating retirement saving at a young age is behind the upper age limit of 39 for next year’s Lifetime ISA. The Chancellor’s parliamentary private secretary has said that a reform of pensions tax relief would fit in with the new Prime Minister’s plans.

It would probably also appeal to the Treasury, because it’s estimated that higher rate taxpayers account for half of all pension contributions, but nearly three quarters of all tax relief. A higher rate taxpayer aged over 33 would be worse off under the suggested age-related system as their bonus would be no more than 66% against the equivalent 66.67% provided by higher rate relief. That age threshold means most higher rate taxpayers would lose out.

There is no certainty that any change will be announced in the Autumn Statement on
23 November, nor even if it is, that it will take immediate effect. However, if you are contemplating a pension contribution in the near future, the possibility is worth bearing in mind.

For a discussion with one of our Chartered Financial Planners based in Hawarden, call us today on 01244 539 595. We can give you a no obligation, free of charge consultation to help you make informed choices regarding your future income.

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