Defined benefit vs SIPP: The death benefit debate continues

Running the numbers on death benefits for clients

clock • 4 min read

Neil MacGillivray pens a follow-up to his last article on DB allowances, this time bringing death benefits in final salary and SIPPs into the mix

In my last article, I covered the topic of the annual allowance (AA) for defined benefit (DB) schemes. The article's purpose was not to fixate on the possibility of an AA charge but instead focus on the need to adopt a holistic approach and determine what were ancillary positives instead. I find that whenever anything is written that appears to be a contrarian view to ‘potential' downsides of DB schemes, criticism can ensue. In one conversation I was told I shouldn't forget that death benefit treatments are far more favourable under money purchase arrangements, like a self-invested perso...

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

Planning ahead of IHT changes: Using pensions to support charities

Planning ahead of IHT changes: Using pensions to support charities

Practical planning steps for advisers

Pooja Shah
clock 16 April 2026 • 5 min read
FCA to take action against Hartley Pensions and involved individual

FCA to take action against Hartley Pensions and involved individual

Entered administration in 2022

Jen Frost
clock 15 April 2026 • 2 min read
From A-day to IHT: How government forgot the meaning of 'consultation'

From A-day to IHT: How government forgot the meaning of 'consultation'

'What is particularly galling is that there were viable alternatives'

Rachel Vahey
clock 14 April 2026 • 3 min read