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  • Considering job polygamy? There are potential retirement pros and cons
  • The rise of ‘polygamous working’ – holding down multiple remote jobs – could add thousands to your retirement pot, according to new analysis from Standard Life
  • While the extra income and potential pension perks are tempting, burnout could reverse any gain if it forces early retirement

Five years on from the pandemic, many are still embracing working from home despite ongoing debate around the benefits. Whether it’s added flexibility, lack of commute or the comfort of working in your own environment, there are certainly perks to a hybrid or fully remote working pattern. Recently, however, a lesser-known, more obscure advantage has gained popularity – ‘polygamous working’, where individuals simultaneously hold two or more full-time remote roles, unbeknownst to their employers.

With a recent report from the Cabinet Office revealing the growing popularity of this trend since the 2020 pandemic1, it’s easy to see why individuals might be tempted to take advantage of multiple salaries. However, while not technically illegal, this isn’t without risks with many employers explicitly prohibiting holding multiple jobs in contracts. Still, for those who choose to juggle jobs, the benefits could stretch further than the monthly pay cheque, as multiple jobs can mean multiple pension plans which can substantially boost retirement savings.

Double jobs, double pensions?

Analysis from Standard Life highlights the potential impact of polygamous working on your retirement pot. For example, an individual who works from age 22 to 68, contributing the minimum 8% into their pension (5% employer, 3% employee), and holds two jobs (funding two pension plans) for ten years between 35 and 45, could accumulate a retirement pot of £257,000 by 68 (adjusted for 2% inflation). This represents an increase of £47k compared to a similar individual working one job throughout their entire career who could have a pension pot of £210,000 when they reach retirement.

That said, working two jobs is no small feat, and with recent research revealing that nine in ten workers have experienced extreme levels of pressure or stress in the past year2, the risks of overworking induced burnout shouldn’t be ignored. With such burnout having the potential to prompt early retirement, it could have a significant impact on your final retirement funds. Indeed, an individual who works from age 22 to 68, and holds two jobs between ages 35 and 45, but chooses to retire early at 57, could have a retirement pension pot of £167,000 in today’s prices, £43,000 lower than the £210,000 they could have built up had they worked just one job throughout their career.

Career circumstances Total retirement fund at age 68*
Consistently working one job throughout career, 22 – 68 £210,000
One job between 22 and 35. Two jobs between the age of 35 and 45. One job between 45 and 68 £257,000
One job between 22 and 35. Two jobs between the age of 35 and 45. One job from 45 until earlier retirement at 57 £167,000

*Assuming employee pension contributions of 5% and employer contribution of 3% for all jobs, 3.50% salary growth per year (based on a starting salary of £25,000 at 22), and 5% a year investment growth. Additional jobs are assumed to be the same salary as original job. Figures are reduced to take effect 2% inflation. Annual Management Charge of 0.75% assumed. The figures are an illustration and are not guaranteed. Earning limits not applied.

Dean Butler, Managing Director for Retail at Standard Life said: “Polygamous working might be one of the more unexpected legacies of the rise of remote working, but it’s not hard to see why it might appeal to a brazen few. Doubling up on jobs can mean extra income now, and potentially a long-term savings benefit too. However, it’s clearly not without complications – many employment contracts restrict multiple roles, and the sheer pressure of juggling two (or more) jobs can be heavy. If the stress builds up and pushes you into early retirement, that pension bump could vanish quickly.

“Before considering job-juggling as a serious option, make sure you have a clear understanding of the potential consequences and take a full view of your situation. Remember you’ll be taxed on your income as a whole and if you qualify for any state benefits, taking additional roles could lower or removed your eligibility. When it comes to pensions, be aware that if one of your roles pays under £10,000, you might not be automatically enrolled into a pension, and you’ll need to ask your employer to opt you in. Above all, take care of yourself – your wellbeing now shapes your future health and finances, and balance is always key.”

ENDS

Enquiries

James Merrick
Standard Life
07974 063067
james_merrick@standardlife.com

Notes to editors

1 National Fraud Initiative Report 2022 - 2024 (HTML) - GOV.UK

2 Mental Health UK - Burnout Report 2025 reveals generational divide in levels of stress and work absence

About Standard Life

  • Standard Life is a brand that has been trusted to look after peoples’ life savings for 200 years
  • Today it proudly serves millions of customers who come to Standard Life directly, through advisers and through their employers’ pension scheme.
  • Standard Life is part of Phoenix Group, one of the UK's largest long-term savings and retirement businesses. We’re proud to be building on 200 years of Standard Life heritage together
  • Our products include a variety of Pensions, Bonds and Retirement options to suit people’s needs, helping our customers to invest and save for their future. We’re proud to offer a leading range of sustainable and responsible investment options.
  • We support our customers on their journey to and through retirement with comprehensive, easy-to-understand guidance so they can invest in the right way for their needs, and plan a future they feel confident about.
  • The value of investments can go down as well as up and may be worth less than originally invested.

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