Compare retirement funding options

There are lots of different ways to save for your retirement, but which one works best for you? We look at the main options and explain how they work and compare them on four different features. We’ve given 5 stars to the most effective options and 1 to the least:

Tax – what are the tax features of this particular investment? Is there tax on the way in or on the way out?
Flexibility - can you save when it suits you? How much flexibility is there in changing your payments, taking a break or putting more in depending on what’s going on in your life? Also, when it comes to taking your income, how can you make it work for you?
Access - how much access do you have to your money while you’re saving for retirement?
Risk & return - how much can you diversify to suit a specific risk profile and how risky an option is it?

The information provided is based on Standard Life's current understanding of law and HM Revenues & Customs practice. Tax relief on any investments you hold may change. Its value may depend on your own individual circumstances.

Choose up to 2 scenarios to compare personal pensions

Personal Pensions

Your payments are topped up by the government to provide an income in retirement.

Stocks & shares ISAs ISAs offer a tax-efficient way of investing up to £10,680 a year.
Buy to let property Buying a property to rent out which provides you with a regular source of income.
Property to sell You may decide to downsize and release some of the equity that's built up in your home.
State Pension As long as you've built up enough National Insurance contributions, you can claim an income in retirement.
Inheritance You may be expecting to be left money or assets in a will.