Govt must address 'glaring inequality' in defined benefit tax treatment - Fidelity

Jenna Towler
clock

The government should look into the glaring inequality in the tax system that favours defined benefit (DB) pension schemes over defined contribution (DC), Alan Higham has said.

Fidelity's retirement director made the comments as George Osborne confirmed the lifetime allowance for pension saving would be cut from £1.25m to £1m. The government said it would only affect the wealthiest of pensioners but Higham dismissed the claims, saying many civil servants, teachers and doctors could be caught. He said: "It is very easy to dismiss this as capping excessive tax relief given to very wealthy people. "However, if you retired today at age 65 and wanted to buy an inflation-linked pension that continues to pay 50% to your spouse after your death - as is common in ...

To continue reading this article...

Join Professional Adviser for free

  • Unlimited access to real-time news, industry insights and market intelligence
  • Stay ahead of the curve with spotlights on emerging trends and technologies
  • Receive breaking news stories straight to your inbox in the daily newsletters
  • Make smart business decisions with the latest developments in regulation, investing retirement and protection
  • Members-only access to the editor’s weekly Friday commentary
  • Be the first to hear about our events and awards programmes

Join

 

Already a Professional Adviser member?

Login

More on Pensions

Why the real problems of the pensions dashboard are yet to start

Why the real problems of the pensions dashboard are yet to start

'Its aims seem not only less relevant but potentially problematic'

James Floyd
clock 23 June 2025 • 5 min read
Turning data into dialogue: Helping clients visualise retirement realities

Turning data into dialogue: Helping clients visualise retirement realities

'Data is more than just a collection of figures, it's a powerful tool for engagement'

Joshua Croft
clock 20 June 2025 • 3 min read
Average pension transfer took just 11 days at tax year-end

Average pension transfer took just 11 days at tax year-end

Origo says transfer times decreased around tax year-end with half taking seven days or less

Jasmine Urquhart
clock 17 June 2025 • 2 min read