Question:
I have put some money away in a retirement annuity - is there any way I can draw on those funds. I also have a pension fund at work. I have contacted the financial institution and was told that I can only access these funds when I retire. I do, however, need the funds urgently.
Answer:
Romila,
You can only access your retirement annuity before retirement (earliest age 55) if a) the paid-up value is less than R7 000; b) you have retired early due to ill-health; or c) you formally emigrate. You can access your work pension fund for a housing-related loan (if the fund rules permit), or when you leave your current employer.