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“The decisive factor in planning and implementing a successful retirement is a comprehensive solution that covers as many eventualities as possible,” suggests Linda Pavan, a pension expert at �۶���Ƶ Wealth Management Switzerland. Uncoordinated measures could potentially lead to big income gaps during retirement. If they have at least a six-figure yearly income, pensioners can count on two thirds of their old income; depending on the amount, this could even be considerably lower.

“Important questions often only become clear in a conversation,” says the client advisor. Because of this, and because there aren’t any universal solutions when it comes to the complex matter of retirement, it makes sense to get an expert involved. The pension expert, who advises independently of investment products, starts with a simple but essential question: What is the amount you would like to have guaranteed as income, regardless of how old you get? “Key numbers for a retirement plan are: current income, income after retirement, the desired wealth at age 85 – a reference value for the average life expectancy – as well as the decisive question of how much capital I really need after retirement,” explains Pavan. It's true, after all, that expenses are the linchpin of every plan.

Offset the pension level

What is the comprehensive solution for Paul and Lydia? Even without a marriage certificate, they found a good solution with the help of the expert. The key to a more balanced pension was that Paul could make a lump-sum withdrawal of 650,000 francs from his pension fund. He could now bequeath these assets to Lydia by amending the inheritance contract accordingly. Additionally, she can make tax-deductible purchases into the pension fund until her retirement and thus increase her pension. With this strategy, almost 80 percent of expenses are covered through pensions. “Even pensioners have to pay taxes. So when you make decisions, it’s important to keep the tax consequences in mind – for cohabiting couples, this goes for inheritance tax in particular,” explains the pension expert Linda Pavan.

The tax range for lump-sum withdrawals is generally around 8 to 12 percent, but this can vary greatly depending on the canton and amount. Apart from aligning their pensions, the couple must also decide to use their entire 3a assets to reduce their mortgage, thereby increasing its affordability.

“A well thought-out wealth structure is important for a successful pension provision. For example, you can distribute your assets in different asset pots. These are invested differently as required and allow your assets to be managed successfully,” explains Pavan and notes that this is an important aspect. Paul and Lydia paid 200,000 francs into the first pot for the first five years after retirement to cover their current expenses. This pot includes a nest egg of 25,000 francs as well as funds for buying a car. Another 150,000 francs were paid into the second pot, which will be available as of age 70 and should therefore be invested strategically. The assets are invested in diversified funds with low to mid-range risk appetite. Finally, they paid 250,000 francs into the third pot with higher risk appetite but also higher expected returns, because these assets are only needed in the long term.

“A good plan requires advice. But the solution has to feel right. The best plan is useless if it’s not executed,” concludes Pavan. Paul and Lydia intend to do so and are definitely looking forward to their retirement.

This article was written by NZZ Content Solutions on behalf of �۶���Ƶ.