Pension lump sum claim from the UK?
 

Hi, I have a small pension from Mark's and Spencer that is available to claim. Has anyone any ideas what is the best way to get it to New Zealand? I do not want to put it into a pension here, just claim the money but I am having difficulty finding out how much tax I would have to pay and how to get it. Thanks

Re: Pension lump sum claim from the UK?
 

Contact Chch4me He has helped many on here with there pension issues.
I did the same as you want a few years ago. Cashed in a some old UK private pensions to access the cash rather than re invest in nz

Re: Pension lump sum claim from the UK?
 

The NZ Income Tax Act applies, meaning you will need to declare the full payment in your tax return and pay tax at your personal income tax rate. For example, if your annual income is $70,000 per year, plus the amount you receive from your pension payment (for example purposes, lets say your pension payment is $20,000 NZD), then you will pay tax of 33% on the $20,000 pension payment. i.e tax of $6,600 NZD. (This is an example only, you should seek tax advice).
To get the funds out, you need to follow the instructions from the UK pension company. Note, the UK pension company may also withhold UK tax unless you have a NT Tax Code.
If your scheme is a Defined Benefit plan, then there are other factors that come into play.
Best wishes.

Re: Pension lump sum claim from the UK?
 

Are new immigrants (chance would be a fine thing) still getting the first 4 years tax free?

Re: Pension lump sum claim from the UK?
 

LittleGreyCat In the context of the original post (OP), Transitional Tax Resident Exemption would be required. There is some criteria to qualify as for the Transitional Tax Resident Exemption, including first time in NZ (new immigrants) or returning to NZ after 10 years away, and not to have previously used this exemption.
The OP said they wanted to 'just claim the money". This would be considered a pension income payment and therefore taxed as Income in NZ. If the person qualifies for the 4 years tax free exemption, then no tax would be payable. However, just 1 day over the exemption would result in the full amount assessed for income tax.

Pensions are confusing, tax even more so. Seek advice from an expert to avoid surprises.