AWD brands parties pension plans 'perplexing'

Pensions are being kicked around like a political football by the major parties, according to AWD Chase de Vere.

AWD says the different offers put on the table by political leaders has made the issue of saving for retirement "perplexing" and confusing.

Tory proposals to increase the state pension age to 66 in 2016 "adds yet another number to the game of retirement age bingo," says David Smyth, director of AWD Chase de Vere.

"Right now you can retire at age 50 - but next year the earliest age will be 55 using your own retirement savings," continues Smyth.

"Then the age you can get your state pension might rise to 66 in 2016 if you're a man or by 2020 if you're a woman under Conservative plans.

"Alternatively, the government might raise the state pension age from 65 to 68 by 2046 if you're a man and from 60 to 65 if you're a woman."

Additionally, the default retirement age, when an employer can force a worker to retire, is currently 65 but could rise to 70 next year.

"The confusion over retirement ages is perplexing for people trying to make sensible plans for their retirement income," says Smyth.

To further muddy the water, the Institute of Directors (IOD) yesterday proposed a swift increase of the state retirement age to 70 as part of a radical overhaul of the system.

Amongst the confusing myriad of proposals, Smyth urges savers to seek advice from a financial adviser. He also says having a clear plan in mind, and sticking to it, will help offset future uncertainties for people planning their retirement.

"By deciding what age they would like to retire and then starting early and saving enough of their salary each month to build up a decent retirement pot, they will at least be in a position where they can afford to retire - whatever happens to default retirement ages and the state pension age."