Updated: May 13, 2019
SIPPs and Company Pensions
Already have a company pension and want to know if you can also have a SIPP? Read our in-depth guide to find out if this is possible.
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Author: Tony Stevens - Finance Expert
Updated: May 13, 2019
We receive regular enquiries from customers who are already enrolled in a workplace pension scheme but want to know whether they can open a self invested personal pension (SIPP) alongside it.
This article is going to explain whether this is possible, what the implications are, and the SIPP pension auto enrolment process.
The following topics are covered below...
Can I have a SIPP as well as a company pension?
Currently, the UK State pension equates to just over £8,700 annually (less than minimum wage earnings for a year). It therefore comes as no surprise that people are looking for other ways to safeguard their financial future.
Fortunately, it is possible to have a SIPP and occupational pension at the same time, and you are not required to close and move your workplace savings account in order to open a SIPP to receive the additional benefits.
People sometimes ask us whether their job role affects their pension rights. No, regardless of your occupation, whether you’re an office worker, teacher, or employed by the NHS, you can open a SIPP alongside other pension schemes in order to boost your retirement income.
Speak to a expert today
Why use us?
At OnlineMoneyAdvisor we're here to make sure everyone gets the right advice first time, whatever their situation or needs. Whether you want to get the most out of your pension, or secure a new mortgage deal - we've got it covered.
- Free and Unbiased Advice
- Mortgage Approval Guarantee - or £100 back*
- Personally Matched with an Expert
- There for you every step of the way
- No surprise fees
- Rated excellent on Trustpilot, Feefo and Google
If you have any questions, feel free to call us on: 0808 189 0463
Should I move my company pension to a SIPP?
If you’re considering moving the money from your workplace pension to a SIPP there are a number of factors you need to consider.
These include:
How do the contributions compare?
Your total contribution to any pension scheme is capped at the annual allowance, which is currently £40,000 per tax year.
While the maximum level of contributions don’t differ between an occupational scheme and a SIPP, if you choose to leave your workplace pension there could be consequences.
For example, while some employers may be happy to contribute to your SIPP, they are under no obligation to. If they do, there may be caveats, such as stipulating that you match their contributions.
How flexible is each scheme?
SIPPs are renowned for their investment flexibility, which is why they can be such an appealing prospect over a workplace pension.
Usually, occupational schemes would see the firm making the investment choices, whereas as a SIPP opens you up to not only funds but directly in stocks and shares, as well as larger assets.
What benefits do each include?
Historically, occupational schemes have enhanced benefits over a SIPP, which is why many people choose to open up a SIPP alongside their workplace pension, to reap the benefits of each.
It’s worth checking how the death benefits vary between SIPP and your current scheme.
If you are considering moving your workplace pension funds to a SIPP, it’s highly recommended that you work with one of the experts we work with who understands the complexities of the process, and can advise you along the way. Make an enquiry.
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Is a SIPP a qualifying scheme for auto enrolment?
“Auto enrolment” means you are automatically enrolled into a workplace pension. The scheme was first introduced in October 2012 for larger companies.
Many customers who have opted out of a workplace pension plan, or are part of both an occupational and personal pension plan, want to know whether a SIPP qualifies for auto enrolment.
While your employer can still contribute to your SIPP as well as (or instead of) your workplace scheme, you will not be automatically enrolled. However, they are legally required to contribute to any workplace plan unless agreed otherwise.
To receive regular contributions to your SIPP from your employer, they will have to complete a SIPP direct debit form.
Will I be auto enrolled if I have a group SIPP?
Many employers offer a group SIPP, usually to a select set of employers such as directors or senior partners. Together, these individuals have access to the full range of features of the combined SIPPs.
As with any workplace pension, your employer is legally required to auto enrol you into any qualifying scheme.
Talk to a pensions expert today
To discuss whether having a SIPP and occupational pension is right for you, or to find out more about SIPP auto enrolment, contact Online Money Advisor on 0808 189 0463 or make an enquiry here.
Ask A Quick Question
We can help! We know everyone's circumstances are different, that's why we work with brokers who are experts in pensions. Ask us a question and we'll get the best expert to help.

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Tony Stevens
Finance Expert
About the author
Tony has worked in a vastly diverse array of areas in the pensions industry for over 20 years. Tony regularly writes for trade press, usually on topical and pensions pieces as well as acting as a judge at prestigious national events.
Tony is also a highly qualified Independent Financial Adviser in his own right. His mantra has always been “Hope for the best, but plan for the worst”, and believes that the biggest impact that an adviser can have on a client’s life journey is to take them on a journey from generally having little or no real idea of what their retirement will look like, to giving them the understanding of what their retirement looks like now, then helping them navigate a path to what they want their retirement to be.
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