Retirement preparation

Pension drawdown

A way of taking money from a defined contribution pension while the remaining pension stays invested.

All Pensions Editorial TeamPublished Updated 1 min read

General information, not personal financial advice. Sources checked 2026-10-04. No independent specialist review is claimed.

What it means

Flexi-access drawdown lets you take withdrawals from a defined contribution pension while other money remains invested. Its value can rise or fall, so income is not guaranteed and withdrawals need careful planning to avoid running out of money.

Sources: MoneyHelper: Pension drawdown explained

What remains uncertain

The amount and frequency of withdrawals, investments, charges and tax treatment need consideration. Flexibility does not remove risk. This definition does not suggest a withdrawal rate or determine whether drawdown is suitable for you.

Sources: MoneyHelper: Pension drawdown explained

What to record

Keep provider descriptions and actual payment records separately from a plan for future withdrawals. If a document is a projection, keep that label. Do not enter a projected income amount as a confirmed pot balance.

  • Date the provider explanation.
  • Keep investment and withdrawal questions distinct.

Sources & review

Next scheduled review: 2027-01-04. Provider details can change sooner. Use the official website for the current contact route.

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