Here are some of the reasons why it may be worthwhile considering a SSAS:
- You and other member trustees have full control over how the pension is invested.
- You can invest in a wide range of assets, including commercial property, shares, and (under the right conditions) even make loans back to your company.
- Contributions from the sponsoring employer are typically tax-deductible for the company.
- Investments grow free from income tax and capital gains tax.
- Pension benefits are usually paid out with 25% tax-free (subject to limits).
- A SSAS could be more cost-effective than multiple SIPPs for a group of people, especially for a family business.
It is worth noting at this point that unlike a SIPP, a SSAS can take a lot longer to set up as each scheme must be individually registered by the HMRC. This process can take a matter of weeks and even months but making sure accurate information is provided about the members and sponsoring employer does help in their scrutiny of each application.