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SRA Regulated
All work done by our SRA regulated affiliate law firm or a partner firm.
Transparent fixed-fees
No hidden fees. Up to 50% cheaper than high street firms.
Expert legal help
We assign the best fully regulated UK based solicitors to your case.
What is Constructive Dismissal?
Pension Scheme Disputes – Guidance & Legal Support
At Zavri Law, we help people across the UK navigate pension scheme issues with confidence.
In the last year alone, we supported over individuals in resolving their legal matters.
About Pension Scheme Disputes
A Pension Scheme Dispute arises when an employee challenges the way their pension has been set up, managed, or administered.
Disagreements can involve employers, trustees, pension administrators, insurers, or regulatory bodies.
A solicitor can help ensure you receive the pension benefits you are entitled to and that your scheme is being managed lawfully.
Next Steps & Costs
How Much Does a Pension Scheme Dispute Cost?
Issues with the administration or management of your pension scheme.
Claims relating to pension mis-selling — such as unsuitable products or lack of risk warnings.
Disputes following the insolvency of a pension provider.
Problems across all pension types:
Personal pensions
Private pensions
Workplace schemes
Public service pensions
Errors, unclear scheme rules, or poor communication may all lead to misunderstandings or disputes.
Where to Start When a Pension Issue Arises
Many people first raise their concerns with the Pensions Ombudsman, who can investigate pension complaints independently.
In some situations, you may also be able to pursue compensation.
Who Can Help Resolve My Pension Dispute?
Contact your pension provider, scheme administrator, or financial adviser to challenge the issue.
If you’re unhappy with their response, escalate your complaint to the Pensions Ombudsman.
If your provider has become insolvent, you may claim through the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS).
State pension issues can be directed to The Pension Service, with possible escalation to a senior manager or the Independent Case Examiner.
Concerns about National Insurance contributions can be reported to HMRC.
Do I Need a Solicitor for a Pension Dispute?
You’re not legally required to use a solicitor, but pension rules can be complex.
A specialist lawyer can help you resolve issues more efficiently and protect your long-term financial security.
Understanding your entitlements is essential, especially when your retirement income is affected.
The Role of the Pensions Ombudsman
You can appeal an Ombudsman decision within 35 days of the decision date.
Consent from the Ombudsman is not required.
Appeals must be made to the High Court, and legal advice is recommended to understand your options and prospects.
How Long Does It Take to Resolve a Pension Dispute?
Most pension bodies must follow an Internal Dispute Resolution Procedure (IDRP).
A decision is typically issued within four months, with written notification within 15 days of that decision.
If you disagree with the outcome, you usually have six months to appeal.
Actual timelines can vary depending on the complexity of your case and the organisation involved.
Your Rights Regarding Pension Contributions
If eligible, your employer must automatically enrol you into a pension scheme.
Both you and your employer must make contributions.
Contribution levels depend on the type of scheme:
Defined Contribution schemes: employee percentage + employer contribution + tax relief.
Defined Benefit schemes: based on scheme rules; employers may contribute above the legal minimum.
Minimum total contributions for automatic enrolment are 8% of qualifying earnings (£6,240–£50,270 before tax).
Tax relief is available on contributions, even for non-taxpayers.
Employees in voluntary schemes receive employer contributions once earning over:
£520 per month
£120 per week
£480 across four weeks
Self-employed individuals can contribute to personal pension plans, subject to annual contribution limits.
Can I Dispute Pension Contributions Made by My Employer?
If you believe contributions are incorrect, contact your employer first and request clarification.
Keep all communication in writing in case you need to rely on it later.
If unresolved, submit a complaint to the Pensions Ombudsman, providing all supporting documents.
If contributions are still unpaid after 90 days, you can report the issue to The Pensions Regulator.
You will need:
Employer’s name
Address
PAYE number
Amount of missing pension contributions
Tax on Pension Dispute Settlements
Compensation from a pension dispute may be subject to tax, although often not on the full amount.
Some settlements are tax-exempt, particularly where pension mis-selling occurred.
You may qualify for tax exemption if:
You opted out of your employer’s scheme for a personal pension based on poor advice.
The mis-selling occurred between 29 April 1988 – 30 June 1994.
How Zavri Law Can Help
Pension issues can be stressful, especially when they impact your financial future.
Our experienced solicitors handle all areas of pension law and can assess your case, explain your rights, and guide you through the next steps.
We can support:
Complaints to the Pensions Ombudsman
Member complaints under internal dispute resolution procedures
Claims relating to mis-selling, maladministration, or unpaid contributions
Contact Zavri Law today for a free case review and a tailored quote from a specialist lawyer.
Disclaimer
This content is provided for information purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For advice tailored to your situation, please consult a qualified solicitor.
Mr. Azalpolo
Landlord & Tenant Dispute
Sarah Thompson
Landlord & Tenant Dispute
I got my divorce paperwork done within a week, all online. My solicitor was understanding and responsive — no hidden fees, no confusion.
Sarah Thompson
Landlord & Tenant Dispute
I got my divorce paperwork done within a week, all online. My solicitor was understanding and responsive — no hidden fees, no confusion.
Mr. Azalpolo
Landlord & Tenant Dispute
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