Pension Planning in Turbulent Times: A Proactive Approach Turbulent times can be really stressful for our finances, and our pensions aren't immune to the impact
. However, there are some crucial steps we can take to ensure our retirement savings stay on track 
.Firstly, let's talk about automatic enrolment schemes
. They might seem like a hassle, but sticking with them is really key 
. Even an extra 1% boost in pension contributions can make a huge difference in the long run 
. And if you're self-employed, consider using a stakeholder pension 
.Another essential thing to remember is balancing our money priorities
. If buying a home or taking parental leave takes priority, we need to be strategic about how we manage our finances 
. Using a Lifetime Individual Savings Account (LISA) for a deposit can be a great way to save up, but withdrawing funds before retirement incurs penalties 
.Lastly, keep track of all your pension pots
and monitor your state pension 
. It's easy to lose count of multiple pensions, so using the Pension Tracing Service or seeking independent financial advice is crucial 
.Don't forget that just because we're eligible for a tax-free withdrawal from our pension at 55 (57 after April 2028), it doesn't mean we should
. There are significant tax implications to consider, so always get professional advice before making any decisions about your retirement savings 
.