How to find your lost pensions

Helpful tips if you’ve worked for multiple employers

Finding a lost pension can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. You might have lost track of a pension because  you've changed jobs, moved house, or simply misplaced your pension information. If you’re wondering where your pension savings might be, you’re not alone.

The good news is that tracking down those lost pensions might be easier than you think. Here are some simple steps and useful resources to help you find all your pension savings, as well as a few tips to help keep track of any future pensions.

The challenge of lost pensions

In the UK, there’s an estimated £31.1 billion in unclaimed, inactive, or lost pension pots. (Source: Association of British Insurers (ABI))

Over time, pension schemes can close, merge, or be renamed. So even if you remember the name of your scheme, it might be called something else now. It’s important that you claim your pension - so the sooner you trace a lost one, the better.

Finding all of your pensions is important; every amount can make have an impact on your retirement plans.

Steps to find your lost pensions

  1. Gather your information: If you can, start by pulling together any documents related to your previous jobs and pensions – this includes pay slips, old pension statements, or letters from them. But don’t worry if you can’t find anything – listing your previous employers will give you an idea of pensions you need to track down.
  2. Contact former employers: Reach out to your previous employers or their HR departments. They can often give you the details you need about your pension scheme and point you in the direction of the pension provider.
  3. Use a pension tracing service: Some professional bodies offer services that can help streamline the process of tracking down your lost pensions. We’ve listed some below for extra support.

Tips for keeping track of future pensions

To avoid losing track of your pensions again, we’ve got some helpful tips.

  • Create a pension record: Keep a dedicated document or folder with details of all your pension schemes, including names, contact information, and any relevant account numbers.
  • Update your information regularly: Whenever you change jobs or move, make sure you update your contact details with all of your pension providers.
  • Stay engaged with your pensions: Regularly check in on your pension pots, especially after job changes. This will help you stay on top of your savings and help you manage your pensions.
  • Educate yourself: It might not be everyone’s favourite subject but learning about different types of pensions and how they work will help you plan for your retirement.

Resources

  • Pension Tracing Service: This is a free service offered by the UK government. can visit them here or call them on 0800 731 0193.
  • MoneyHelper: MoneyHelper offers practical advice and resources to help you understand your pensions and find lost savings. You can visit them here or call them on 0800 011 3797.

We’re here to help

If you have any concerns or questions about your pension, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Together, we can keep your financial future safe.

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