FAQs
Pensions can be complicated, so it’s natural you’ll have questions about yours. These Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) are designed to answer the most commonly asked questions about the D&B (UK) Pension Plan (the Plan). If you can’t find the answer to your question here – or elsewhere on the website – please get in touch.
Can I still update my details and change my Expression of Wishes?
If you have DB benefits, the easiest way to update your information and Expression of Wishes is through the Gallagher member portal. If you have DC benefits, you can update your personal details through MyWorkplace. To update your Expression of Wishes you'll need to complete an Expression of Wishes form.
If you have DB benefits, watch our “How to Complete Your Expression of Wish” video to help you through the process.
How do I find out about my pension in the Plan?
What if I have an issue with my pension?
If you have an issue with your pension you should contact either Aviva or Gallagher (as appropriate) using the email address on the Get in touch page.
What if I am not happy with the response to my issue from the scheme administrators?
If you have a complaint about your pension, you can use the Plan’s formal Dispute Resolution Procedure. A copy of this is available from Aviva or Gallagher.
Where can I get advice about my pension?
If you think you need advice or support with your retirement planning, you should consider speaking to a suitably qualified Independent Financial Adviser (IFA). You can find an IFA local to you at www.unbiased.co.uk
Can I manage my pension online?
Members with DB benefits within the Plan can access more information about their pension by accessing the Gallagher Member Portal. If you have forgotten your log in details then please contact Gallagher.
Members with DC benefits within the Plan can access their My Workplace.
Members with DB benefits can watch our “How to Register to the Gallagher Member Portal” video to help you through the process.
How do I update my communications preference
If you have DB benefits, you can update your communications preference on the Gallagher Member Portal. You can access the Portal by clicking or tapping on the Gallagher Member Portal button in the top right-hand corner of the screen. Watch our “Communications preference” video to help you through the process.
What is automatic enrolment?
The Government’s automatic enrolment legislation has been introduced to encourage more people to save for their retirement. Where employees have not voluntarily decided to join their company scheme within a defined period, the legislation requires employers to automatically enrol employees (subject to eligibility) into a qualifying pension plan.
Do I have to join?
Membership is voluntary, however you will be automatically enrolled subject to you meeting certain criteria. More information is provided in the membership booklet. If you do not become a member of the Plan, the Company will not make contributions towards your retirement savings and you will not be entitled to the full benefits described in the section 'Providing for your spouse, children and dependants' in the membership booklet. You will build up State Pension entitlements.
How do I join?
As the CARE Section of the Plan is closed to new members, new entrants are able to join the Plan's DC Section. To join the Plan you need to complete the application form and nomination form (available on this site) and return these to the UK People Team.
What factors determine the size of my DC retirement savings?
The amount of your own and the Company’s contributions; investment performance of the funds in which your own and the Company’s contributions have been invested; and the way you choose to take your retirement savings.
Will I get tax relief on my DC contributions?
If you pay your contributions through Pension Saver, you automatically receive tax relief on what would have been your normal employee contribution. In addition to this income tax relief, you will pay less National Insurance Contributions (NICs). By contributing through Pension Saver, the same total contribution will be paid to your Investment Account overall and your other earnings-related benefits will not be affected eg the lump sum paid in the event that you die while a contributing member of the Plan. If you decide not to pay your contributions using Pension Saver, you still receive the same level of tax relief as your contribution is deducted from your gross pay before tax is calculated. However, you will not receive the NIC savings.
What are my investment options?
You can choose the individual fund or funds from the range offered (known as ‘self-select’) but you will be responsible for monitoring their performance and for switching funds or you can consider either the Diversified or World Equity Lifestyle Investment Programmes in which investment decisions are made automatically. For further information refer to the DC booklet.
What are my options at retirement?
Your options at retirement will depend on what section of the Plan you're in. For more information, please visit the 'My Pensions Journey' section of the site.
When can I retire
The Plan’s Normal Retirement Age is 65. However you may be able to draw your benefits earlier or later with the consent of the Plan's Trustees. The earliest age from which you can start to take your pension benefits (unless you are retiring due to ill health) is currently 55.
How much can I contribute to my DC Pension Account?
You can contribute up to 5% of your Pensionable Salary each month. Your contributions will continue until Normal Retirement Age or your date of leaving if earlier. For more information on how much you can contribute, please vist the Defined Contribution section of the site.
How much does the Company contribute to my DC Pension Account?
How much the Company contributes to your pension will depend on how much you save. For more information visit the Defined Contribution section of the site.
Will I receive a State Pension?
Yes, you should receive a State Pension when you reach State Pension Age - which is currently 66 for both men and women
What happens when I leave the Company
If you leave the Company, you will automatically leave the Plan. This means that you will no longer be able to continue to contribute to the Plan and Company contributions to DC benefits will stop. You will however still have access to your online portal. Please visit the Former employees section of the site for more information.