SSAS services
We are one of the UK’s largest independent small self-administered scheme (SSAS) providers. We have been pioneers of the self-invested pensions market for many years, our oldest SSAS goes back to 1975. We are widely recognised for our technical expertise, outstanding service and product innovation.
A SSAS is a flexible scheme for business owner-managers. It offers the widest choice of scheme investments, including commercial property, with the added benefit of a loan-back facility. This makes SSAS a powerful tool for retirement and business planning.
Scheme members are trustees and retain full control of all aspects of the SSAS’s investment strategy and the payment of any benefits.
Download our SSAS guide
What we do
We act as an independent trustee and scheme administrator, navigating the complexity of pensions and taxation legislation using our in-depth knowledge of the HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) compliance and audit regime.
This involves supplying the necessary documentation to establish or takeover an existing SSAS, registering it with HMRC and administering the scheme.
Our administration services include:
- Record keeping for scheme investments, income and expenditure
- Calculating and reviewing benefit payments
- Technical support and guidance for member trustees
- Preparation and submission of annual unaudited scheme accounts
- Creating reports, filing and remitting payments to HMRC
One of the benefits of using a self-invested pension is the ability to borrow from within the scheme. This may include borrowing to purchase commercial property or provide benefits. Within a SSAS, a loan can be made to the principal employer.
Buying commercial property via a self-invested pension can be a tax-efficient way to inject cash into a business and provide regular income in the form of rent. Property services are provided by our associated company, Embark Property.
Investments held in our self-invested pensions must meet our requirements for permitted assets. Occasionally legislation will affect particular asset types and render them unacceptable, where this is the case we reserve the right to disinvest.
Useful documents
Download our SSAS literature and application forms using the links below. Refer to our full list of permitted investments. To appoint a discretionary fund manager or stockbroker please contact us to ensure it is approved.
If you have any questions, please call our sales support team on 01722 443742.
Defined Benefit SSAS, a different scheme option
Like a traditional defined benefit scheme a Defined Benefit SSAS can be used to provide for a specific pension level at retirement without the commitment to fund for future years of service. It also allows for higher contributions, so members can catch-up on lost years of pension funding.
RETIREMENT OPTIONS
Our SSAS offers members a wide choice payment options for their benefits, so they can phase their retirement income, to suit their circumstances.
Retirement optionsDEATH BENEFITS
Death benefits are paid to a member’s nominated beneficiaries, who may be dependants, nominees or successors, at the discretion of the Trustees.
Death benefitsPENSIONS TECHNICAL
Helpful information and resources on the rules surrounding pension contributions, retirement options and death benefits.
Pensions technicalMANDATORY SCHEME BANK ACCOUNT
The Metro Bank PLC account we set up for each SSAS is for the purpose of managing all cash payments related to the scheme.
Scheme bank accountSCHEME ACCOUNTANCY
We can assist with pension related accountancy queries from trustees of schemes not administered by us.
Accountancy servicesPRACTITIONER SERVICES
Technical support and actuarial services, preparing scheme documentation and administration.
SSAS practitioner servicesACTUARIAL CONSULTANCY
Our group company, Embark Actuarial, offers commercially aware, understandable solutions for scheme trustees.
Embark Actuarial