The pension words.
In plain English.

A pension that builds an invested pot, with a value that can change.

• MoneyHelper: Defined contribution pension schemes — source checked 2026-10-04

A pension that calculates retirement income using its scheme rules.

• GOV.UK: Types of private pensions — source checked 2026-10-04

A pension arranged through an employer; the arrangement may build an invested pot or benefits under scheme rules.

• GOV.UK: About workplace pensions — source checked 2026-10-04

A pension arrangement usually building an invested pot, which may be arranged individually or used through an employer.

• GOV.UK: Personal pensions — source checked 2026-10-04

Government retirement income linked to National Insurance history and applicable rules, separate from private pension pots.

• GOV.UK: New State Pension eligibility — source checked 2026-10-04

A self-invested personal pension: a defined contribution arrangement with investment choices that depend on the provider.

• MoneyHelper: SIPPs explained — source checked 2026-10-04

A way of using pension money to buy income, with the duration and features set by the contract.

• MoneyHelper: Annuities explained — source checked 2026-10-04

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

• MoneyHelper: Pension drawdown explained — source checked 2026-10-04

The pension arrangement whose rules and records apply to members.

• GOV.UK: Types of private pensions — source checked 2026-10-04

The organisation named as provider for a pension arrangement; use the scheme paperwork to identify the right contact for your record.

• MoneyHelper: How to find old or lost pensions — source checked 2026-10-04

A dated document describing information about your pension.

• MoneyHelper: How to find old or lost pensions — source checked 2026-10-04

A reference a scheme uses to identify a member record; keep it with the relevant scheme rather than treating it as a value or entitlement.

• Nest: Member ID explained — source checked 2026-10-04