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what benefits are there of changing from RMDCP to DBCBS

Royal Mail pension news and discussion.Please note the advise given in this forum is unofficial, please use the links we have for a more detailed response or see an independent financial adviser.
stephen500
EX ROYAL MAIL
Posts: 1458
Joined: 02 Jun 2007, 04:04

what benefits are there of changing from RMDCP to DBCBS

Post by stephen500 »

Dear Terry T,

A colleague at work asked me what benefits are there of changing from RMDCP to DBCBS, if any.
I would be grateful, if you have an opinion on this, if you could offer it!
Pros and cons?
Thanks, in advance.
Plus I presume for limited period until new pension scheme kicks in.
datasaint
Posts: 1541
Joined: 22 Sep 2008, 17:19
Gender: Male

what benefits are there of changing from RMDCP to DBCBS

Post by datasaint »

Well the higher contribution rate from RM is the main draw, 13.6% vs 10% on the DC scheme. Yes the pensionable pay is slightly higher on the DC plan but nowhere near enough to outweigh it.

Plus on the DBCBS you're guaranteed what you've paid in the DC plan could in theory give you nothing.
rogersh
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Joined: 26 Oct 2011, 11:31
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what benefits are there of changing from RMDCP to DBCBS

Post by rogersh »

Did your colleague receive 2018 Pension Review: Members of the Royal Mail Defined Contribution Plan. February 2018?

I suggest you can visit "myroyalmail" site - me at work - pensions - pensions review Q&A 2018, which gives information on the transitional arrangements & information on the different schemes.
RobertT
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Joined: 09 Sep 2007, 14:26
Gender: Male

what benefits are there of changing from RMDCP to DBCBS

Post by RobertT »

There isn't really a definitive answer to which is best because they've both got there pros and cons, and a lot will depend on the individual. But here's my observations:

RMDCP pros:

No Lower Earnings Deduction
Access from age 55 at whatever it's value is at the time.
More investment choices.
More flexibility.

RMDCP cons:

No allowances are pensionable.
Lower contributions as a percentage of pensionable pay.
Investment returns will vary.

DBCBS pros:

Your guaranteed at least the contributions going in.
Annual bonuses are guaranteed once added.
Higher contributions as a percentage of pensionable pay.
Pensionable allowances included.
You can pay into Bonusplan and get a little more off RM.

DBCBS cons:

The Lower Earnings Deduction.
Low targetted annual increases.
No choice of investments, unless you also pay into Bonusplan and/or Flexiplan.
NRA of 65 with the ability to take it beforehand, but with a reduction.

*The pros and cons for RMPP members(sections A, B & C) building up a lump sum via the DBCBS, choosing to switch to the RMDCP are going to be different to the above.

*The plan is for CDC to replace both the DBCBS and the RMDCP.

The info rogersh suggests you read is all available here: https://www.myroyalmail.com/pensions" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
Also look in the RMPP plan guides for more info, available in the library sections of the RMPP website: https://www.royalmailpensionplan.co.uk/" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
And the RMDCP website: https://www.scottishwidows.co.uk/save/royalmaildcplan/" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
Links to all RM pension related websites are here
stephen500
EX ROYAL MAIL
Posts: 1458
Joined: 02 Jun 2007, 04:04

what benefits are there of changing from RMDCP to DBCBS

Post by stephen500 »

Thank you so much for all your replies
heapsy
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Location: Drinking with Gangsters

what benefits are there of changing from RMDCP to DBCBS

Post by heapsy »

Don't forget, the CDC will have an NRA of 67. This will have implications such as reduction of benefits, should you wish to retire early. How people are affected will depend on how much of their pension they have in that scheme.