Suitability reports needed for advice against pension transfers - FCA

Into force from 4 October

Hannah Godfrey
clock • 2 min read

The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) is to press ahead with its plan to require firms to provide suitability reports for advice against a pension transfer despite concerns over additional advice costs.

In its policy paper PS18/20, published on Thursday (4 October), the FCA confirmed plans to require firms to provide a suitability report during pension transfer advice, regardless of whether the recommendation is ultimately to transfer. The FCA said a suitability report would provide a customer with a lasting record of why remaining in a defined benefit scheme was the most suitable outcome for them, as well as offering a record that should help an adviser if there was a future dispute on the advice given. Some respondents to a prior consultation on the proposal suggested the additiona...

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 Regulation

Failed financial advice firms tracker

Failed financial advice firms tracker

Firms that the FSCS has confirmed as failed since the start of 2023

Professional Adviser
clock 03 September 2025 • 1 min read
Targeted support regime welcome but rules need 'adjustments'

Targeted support regime welcome but rules need 'adjustments'

Advisers, providers and trade bodies call for clarity as consultation closes

Sahar Nazir
clock 29 August 2025 • 4 min read
SMCR reform needs efficiency without sacrificing accountability

SMCR reform needs efficiency without sacrificing accountability

'If we lose sight of the SMCR's fundamental purpose we risk undoing years of progress'

Shaun Hurst
clock 28 August 2025 • 4 min read