To withdraw from my pension account?

[Dexte]

I’ve got a pension account with Nest (also have one with another 2 providers which I think I should transfer to the Nest account)

I actually don’t know how much money is in these accounts but I have been paying into them for about 10 years.

I was thinking though if I need some urgent cash and I don’t want to touch my savings accounts, can I withdraw money from my pension?

I found mixed info on it when I googled.

How old are you? Do you want to contribute more in future years?

You can't normally withdraw money from a pension scheme before you are 55, 57 from (IIIR) 2028.

And if you can, you will be hit by high fees and a tax bill.

I’m 30 and I guess yes, I should keep on paying into it? 😬
Feels a bit weird though as I got this feeling that I won’t make it to retirement (completely different thread but sometimes I think it’s pointless)

saying that I have been paying into it for 10 years not knowing how much is in there 🥴 so maybe if I knew it would make it not real

Even if allowed I wouldn't

Speak to a financial advisor

How do you not know how much is in your nest account? Just login to their website.

Probably the same for the others. You'd also get an annual statement through the post.

Do not stop contributing. If you stop, so will your employer. Plus you won't get the 25% top up from the government.

Also, look at nests different fund options. They have different risk levels, and hugely different returns.

Don't be passive about pensions. Especially when young. The power of compound interest over decades could be the difference between old age destitution and a comfortable retirement. Do not expect the government or a partner to provide for you in old age.