GOV.UK
Pension options - what can I do with my pot?
There are 6 ways you can take your defined contribution pension pot.
You can usually take 25% of your pot tax free.
Leave your whole pot untouched
You don’t have to start taking money from your pension pot when you reach your ‘selected retirement age’. You can leave your money invested in your pot until you need it.
Guaranteed income (annuity)
You use your pot to buy an insurance policy that guarantees you an income for the rest of your life – no matter how long you live.
Adjustable income
Your pot is invested to give you a regular income. You decide how much to take out and when, and how long you want it to last.
Take cash in chunks
You can take smaller sums of money from your pot until you run out. Your 25% tax-free amount isn’t paid in one lump sum – you get it over time.
Take your whole pot in one go
You can cash in your entire pot – 25% is tax free, the rest is taxable.
Mix your options
You can mix different options. Usually, you would need a bigger pot to do this.
