Retirement age

I have refused to sign a joint instruction for a PODE opinion because it states the assumptions should be that I will retire at state pension age and my ex will retire at age 60 due to ill health in 6 years time. I cannot see how that assumption is valid, particularly has there is no agreement with the pension provider for my ex to retire early and the ill health she suffers from is alcohol dependency, for which she is receiving treatment and is treatable as long as she complies with treatment. Am I right in requesting the assumption should be that both will retire at the usual state retirement age?

You can ask for a calculation based on you both retiring at 60 if that is her intention. This will take into account any penalties levied for taking the pension before the scheme normal retirement age. This calculation can be done alongside one for equalising incomes at State Retirement Age. When you have both calculations that will give you the basis for negotiation.

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