Search results for "R04"
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Class 3 National Insurance: The Opportunity Remains
Class 3 National Insurance contributions are one of the most lucrative investment opportunities your clients could ever come across. Those studying for R04 will find this article particularly useful to their exam revision. -
A Triple-Locked Secured Income… But For How Long?
There hasn’t been much good news around for pensioners over the last couple of years, but the State Pension has been one rare bright spot. In this article, we focus on the escalation of State Pensions and the much talked about ‘triple lock’. This article is relevant for anyone studying for their R04, J05 or AF7 exams. -
Navigating Recent Changes to the Lifetime Allowance, PCLS, and Death Benefits
The legislation to abolish the lifetime allowance has now been formally passed through Parliament. That’s one headache gone… isn’t it? Unfortunately not, whilst there will no longer be a punitive tax charge for exceeding a nominal limit, we are still going to have to bear that figure in mind because individuals will now be subject to a lump sum allowance and a lump sum and death benefits allowance. The upshot is that for exam candidates, a lifetime pension allowance remains very firmly part of the syllabus for the pensions exams. This article is relevant for candidates who are studying towards the CII R04, FA2, J05 and AF7 exams. -
You Can Never Do Too Many Pension Questions!
Due to take the CII R04 exam any time soon? Capped drawdown may not be an option for clients retiring today, but many individuals still hold this form of drawdown, and it is still very much part of the R04 syllabus. There is a good chance it could be tested in your exam, so we thought we'd talk you through a couple of typical R04 questions on this subject. -
Brand Bitesize: Pension Carry Forward
In this Brand Bitesize video, we talk about the basic criteria that must be met for pension carry forward to apply. This is useful for CII R04, AF5, AF7, or R06 exam revision. -
Exploring Recent Changes to the Pension Commencement Lump Sum
In the ever-changing landscape of pensions, recent developments have shaken up the system, leaving many individuals wondering about the implications for their retirement plans. Chancellor Jeremy Hunt's surprise announcement of the abolition of the lifetime allowance has generated both excitement and concern. While the removal of tax penalties for exceeding the allowance seems like a positive change, there are nuances to consider, such as the frozen tax-free pension commencement lump sum entitlement and its potential impact on real value over time. This article explores the intricacies of these new pension regulations and their potential consequences for individuals and candidates preparing for CII pension-related exams. -
The Hidden Benefits of Class 3 National Insurance Contributions
National insurance is commonly perceived as just another tax, but its true value lies in being a remarkable investment opportunity. With 35 qualifying years required for a full state pension, clients can leverage Class 3 National Insurance contributions to secure additional qualifying years and boost their retirement income. In this article, we delve into the benefits, returns, and extended deadline for seizing this often overlooked investment. Those studying for any of the CII AF1, AF5, R03, R04, or R06 will find extra knowledge in the area of National Insurance contributions to be advantageous to their exam revision. -
Brand Bitesize: Self-Assessment
In this Brand Bitesize video, we take a look at self-assessment – relevant to CII exam R03, but also a worthy reminder for exams AF1, AF5, CF1, R01, R04, and R06. -
Safe Withdrawal Rate Explained
Financial advisers have a crucial role in developing a sustainable withdrawal strategy (i.e., a ‘safe withdrawal rate’ ) for retired clients that ensures their pension fund lasts for their lifetime while accounting for inflation. This article is particularly relevant to the CII R04, J05, AF7, and AF8 units.