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Retirement Benefits

Your Retirement, Your Way: Understanding Your Payout Options

Your hard work has paid off. Now, let’s explore the simple and flexible ways you can access your retirement savings.

Planning Your Income for a Comfortable Retirement

You’ve arrived at retirement, and it’s time to enjoy the fruits of your savings. The next step is choosing how you’ll receive your pension income. At Parthian Pensions, we’re here to make this decision as simple and clear as possible.
The Nigerian Contributory Pension Scheme gives you two primary ways to receive your monthly pension: Programmed Withdrawal and Retiree Life Annuity. First, let’s talk about the initial step

The First Step: Accessing Your Lump Sum

Before you start receiving monthly payments, this depends on your age and RSA balance, as determined by PenCom’s template. This lump sum is optional, and the remaining balance in your RSA will be used to provide your monthly pension.

A good retirement starts with smart decisions, not lucky guesses

"A good retirement starts with smart decisions, not lucky guesses"

The Two Paths to Your Pension Income

After deciding on your lump sum, you will choose one of two paths for your regular income. Let’s break them down simply.

1. Programmed Withdrawal (PW)

What is Programmed Withdrawal? Think of Programmed Withdrawal (PW) as receiving a regular monthly or quarterly “salary” directly from your RSA, which remains with us at Parthian Pensions. We continue to manage and invest your funds on your behalf, aiming to keep them growing even as you draw from them.

How It Works:

  • Your RSA Stays with Us: Your remaining RSA balance continues to be managed by our expert fund managers in the conservative Fund IV (Retiree Fund).
  • Regular Payments: We calculate your expected lifespan and RSA balance to determine a monthly/quarterly payment amount.
  • Potential for Growth: Because your funds remain invested, they have the potential to keep growing, which could lead to an increase in your periodic payments over time.
  • Payments Until Funds are Exhausted: You receive payments until the balance in your RSA is depleted.

 

Key Features of Programmed Withdrawal:

  • Managed by Parthian Pensions: Your funds remain with a trusted PFA.
  • Investment Growth Potential: Your capital continues to be invested.
  • Inheritance: If you pass away, any remaining balance in your RSA is paid to your named beneficiary.
  • Flexibility: You have the option to switch to an Annuity plan later (typically once a year).

2. Understanding Annuity Options

What is a Retiree Life Annuity? An Annuity is essentially an insurance policy that guarantees you a regular income for the rest of your life, no matter how long you live. To purchase an Annuity, your remaining RSA balance is transferred to a licensed Life Insurance company of your choice.

How It Works:

  • Choose an Insurer: You select a licensed Life Insurance company from a list approved by PenCom.
  • Transfer Your Funds: Parthian Pensions transfers your remaining RSA balance to that insurance company to purchase the Annuity policy.
  • Guaranteed Income for Life: The insurance company then pays you a fixed monthly or quarterly amount for the rest of your life.
  • Your PFA Relationship Ends: Once the funds are transferred, your relationship with Parthian Pensions for that RSA concludes, as the insurance company now manages your payments.

Programmed Withdrawal vs. Annuity

Feature

Feature

Programmed Withdrawal (with Parthian Pensions)

Retiree Life Annuity (with an Insurance Company)

Who Manages Your Funds?

Parthian Pensions

Your chosen Life Insurance Company

Can My Pension Grow?

Yes, your funds remain invested and can grow.

No, your income is fixed at the start.

Who Bears Investment Risk?

You, the retiree (payments could fluctuate).

The Insurance Company.

Can My Family Inherit?

Yes, any remaining balance is paid to your beneficiary.

Only if you pass away within a pre-agreed guaranteed period (e.g., 10 years).

Making the Right Choice for You

The best choice depends on your personal circumstances and priorities. Consider these questions:

Your Risk Tolerance:

Are you comfortable with your funds remaining invested for potential growth (Programmed Withdrawal)?

Leaving a Legacy:

Is it important for you that your beneficiaries inherit any remaining balance (Programmed Withdrawal)?

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

No. The scheme is designed to provide a steady income throughout your retirement. You can only take a one-time lump sum, with the rest paid out periodically. (Exceptions apply for very small balances, as determined by PenCom).

Yes, you can choose to switch from PW to an Annuity at a later date. However, you cannot switch from an Annuity back to PW.

Typically, you'll need your official retirement/exit letter from your employer, your birth certificate, and a valid means of identification. Our team will provide you with a full checklist.

Ready to Start Your Retirement Journey?

Our dedicated Retiree Support Team is ready to guide you through the application process with the simplicity and care you deserve.

Our dedicated Retiree Support Team is ready to guide you through the application process with the simplicity and care you deserve.

Need Help or Have Questions?

• Call our Transfer Helpline: 0700-00-72784736
• Email us: info@parthianpensions.com
• Visit any of our Branch Locations

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