Research shows nearly three-quarters of divorced people did not discuss pensions during their divorce proceedings. In fact, less than one in ten people going through divorce claim they even want a fair share of pensions, despite the likelihood that the average married couple’s retirement pot could be their largest asset.
The key findings also indicate that women are less well-prepared for retirement, with only 52% saving adequately, compared with 59% of men, and that divorced women are even less prepared – 24% are not saving anything into a pension. Scottish Widows says that almost half of women (48%) have no idea what happens to pensions when a couple gets divorced, which may explain why so few couples consider pensions as part of a settlement.
It is a common misconception that each spouse keeps their own personal pension. Although there is no automatic entitlement to a pension share, the courts will look at the merits in each case when a settlement is reached. The harsh reality is that couples often face a real threat of losing out to an entitlement because they do not explore all options. It is therefore imperative that you know your rights as you may be one of those people that inadvertently places yourself at a considerable financial disadvantage.
Discuss this with one of our family solicitors today.