What is the biggest pension freedoms concern for advisers?

Three years on from the launch of the rules, advisers believe pension freedoms to be a success with 81% backing the reforms.

However just 30% said the new rules have been 'very successful', with consumer education regarded as one of the biggest challenges to the ongoing success of the regime.

The potential of savers running out of money in retirement and being unable to support themselves continues to be raised by advisers with just under half of advisers (49%) voicing such concerns.

Additionally unexpected tax bills and the risk of mis-selling are the biggest risk to support for pension freedoms according to 45% of advisers while two out of five (41%) warn about the risk of fraud.

Ideas to increase the take-up of guidance and advice include offering increased subsidies for advice in the workplace, which is backed by 26% of those questioned, while 23% would support employers being enabled to offer guidance and facilitate advice.

Vince Smith-Hughes, retirement income expert at Prudential, said: “This research highlights just how beneficial it is for people to take high-quality advice as they approach the end of their careers. People approaching retirement like the idea of being able to access their pension funds but there are many pitfalls that advisers can help them avoid.

“Advisers recognise that a lack of understanding can lead to consumers drawing too much money and running out of money too early in retirement, incurring unexpected tax bills or saving their money in inappropriate types of investment.

“The earlier those approaching retirement engage with retirement planning, the better."