Information you can ask for
As a member of a pension fund, you are generally entitled to information about the fund and your own benefit. You can ask your fund for:
- a copy of the fund rules, or a summary of them;
- a regular statement of your benefit and contributions received;
- an explanation of how your benefit will be calculated and paid;
- the names of the trustees and how to contact the principal officer.
If something goes wrong
Common problems include missing contributions, delayed payments and benefit amounts that look wrong. Follow these steps in order, and keep copies of everything.
- Speak to your employer's HR department, especially about contributions deducted from your salary.
- Write to the fund administrator or principal officer, explaining the problem and asking for a written response.
- Contact the Insurance and Pensions Commission (IPEC) if the fund does not resolve your complaint. IPEC regulates funds and protects members' interests.
How ZAPF can help
ZAPF represents pension funds and the wider industry. It does not manage individual members' benefits or decide complaints, but the secretariat can tell you who to approach. ZAPF also raises industry-wide problems, such as unremitted contributions, with the regulator.
Protect yourself
- Never share your fund details or ID with anyone who contacts you unexpectedly.
- Be wary of offers to "release" your pension early for a fee.
- Keep your beneficiary nomination and contact details up to date.
Contact the ZAPF secretariat if you are unsure where to turn.