Because pensions are the most productive way to secure your golden years it’s essential that you be informed. Even those who’ve been self-employed require the same security. Your options differ from others. While you are self-employed you will not build up an entitlement to the additional State Pension. However, your Class 2 Insurance does warrant you some State allotment.

If you are self-employed you also may not join an occupational pension scheme unless you also work for an employer that operates one. But you can join and make payments to a stakeholder and/or personal pension scheme.

Of course a first step would be to find out how much, if any State Pension you’ve earned. To receive this information you can contact the Future Pension Centre.

Deciding when to claim your State Pension has its own significance.  If you defer your claim you could be entitled to a higher weekly pension. As well as the State Pension, the Government offers a range of help to provide extra financial support to petitioners – in particular. Pension Credit, which may help by providing a contribution towards a minimum level of income for people aged 60 and over. For people aged 65 and over, Pension Credit may also give extra money as a reward for saving and providing an income for their retirement.

Pensioners may also get help towards their housing costs, their Council Tax, and the extra cost of a disability. You also have the option of Stakeholder Pensions as well as Personal Pensions.

If you decide you want a career break you might profit by considering stakeholder pension before you start a personal pension.

Primarily, there are quite a few options open to you. It’s crucial to take the time to explore each one and decide on which are most beneficial to you.