Providing for our loved ones after we die is something many of us worry about. So it’s reassuring to know those who matter to you could get some help when you’re no longer around to support them.

The easiest way to ensure your loved ones are provided for when you die is by completing an Expression of Wish.

What is an Expression of Wish?

A valuable benefit of your Scheme membership is that a lump sum might be paid if you die before taking your pension. This is usually tax-free.

An Expression of Wish is a form you complete either online or in paper. By completing an Expression of Wish you tell the Trustee who you want your pension lump sum to go to in the event of your death in service. The Trustee considers the people or causes you have named in your Expression of Wish when deciding who to make any payments to.

Peace of mind for you and for your loved ones

If you don’t make a nomination, the Trustee may not know where to pay the money. This could mean the payment is delayed, and even taxed as a result.

It’s a difficult time when you lose someone, without added financial stress and disagreements between friends and family. So it’s a good idea to nominate to help prevent unnecessary worry.

Who can I add to my Expression of Wish?

You can add:

• An individual, or several people, such as family and friends
• Organisations or good causes
• Charities

Your Expression of Wish is completely confidential, so the people or organisations you have listed won’t know if you’ve added or removed them as a beneficiary. You can add as many people or ogranisations as you want to.

Make sure to keep your nominations up to date so they still reflect your wishes, particularly if your circumstances change. You could make a note in your diary to review your nominations every year or so.

How to make an Expression of Wish

If you’re a Defined Benefit (DB) member you can log into your online account or download the form to create and update your Expression of Wish.

If you’re a Defined Contribution (DC) member you can log in online to make and review your Expression of Wish or print off and return the online form.

An Expression of Wish is not the same as a Will

Your Expression of Wish shows where you’d like a lump sum from your pension to go if you die before you claim it, and this cannot be covered in your will. Many people think everything they own will be given out according to their will when they die. It’s important to remember that if you die, your pension is separate to the rest of your estate.