New research from Aptia, a leading provider of pension administration, consulting and actuarial services, has revealed that half of UK adults aged 55-70 who considering retirement within the next five years are relying on their pension provider’s website or app when making key retirement planning decisions.
The findings come during Pensions Awareness Week, a campaign dedicated to raising awareness of the importance of retirement planning and empowering people to take greater control of their pension savings.
The research surveyed 250 UK adults aged 55-70 who have retired and receiving a pension from a previous employer, and 250 UK adults aged 55-70 considering retiring in the next five years and will receive a pension from a previous employer.
The survey found that digital resources are playing an increasingly important role in retirement planning. While nearly a third (29%) of recent retirees used their provider’s website or app when making their retirement decisions, half of those nearing retirement planned to do so – with this figure rising to 60% for those aged 55-59.
The increasing influence of social media also came through the results. A quarter (25%) of retirees had turned to social media or websites – including Government backed support (i.e. Money Helper, Pension Wise etc) for information about retirement.
The research also showed that people rely on a wide mix of sources when planning for retirement. In addition to digital resources, just under a third (29%) of those who are considering retiring in the next 5 years spoke to or were planning to speak directly to their provider.
For those planning retirement, provider information packs remained an important source of guidance (34%), followed by advice from friends and family (22%) and professional regulated financial advice (16%).
Sue Doughty, Aptia’s UK Head of Pensions Administration, said: ‘The decisions people make at retirement can have a significant impact on their long-term financial wellbeing, and so it's encouraging to see that people are actively seeking guidance and information as they prepare for this important stage in their life.
‘Future retirees are placing greater value on digital retirement planning tools, but our research shows there is no ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach. If members can’t access the support they need, they are increasingly likely to turn to unregulated sources such as social media. That’s why trustees should review the support they provide and consider offering both a strong digital experience and access to expert guidance.’
For more information contact:
Corinne Gladstone, Aptia Head of Corporate Communications & Public Relations.
Email: media.enquiries@aptia-group.com
Sam Emery/ Emma Murphy/ Robbie Lawther - Quill PR
Email: Aptia@quillpr.com
NOTES TO EDITORS
- The research was conducted by Opinion Matters, among a sample of 250 UK adults aged 55-70 who are considering retiring in the next 5 years and will receive a pension from a previous employer. The data was collected between 03.06.26 - 08.06.26. Opinion Matters abides by and employs members of the Market Research Society and follows the MRS code of conduct and ESOMAR principles. Opinion Matters is also a member of the British Polling Council.
- Founded to shape the future of pensions, health, and insurance solutions, Aptia is a leading UK pensions administrator and US employee benefits administrator dedicated to simplifying complexity for businesses and individuals. It brings together cutting-edge technology and deep industry expertise to help organisations navigate an evolving landscape with clarity and confidence.
- Aptia is the UK’s largest private-sector third-party administrator serving 1600 clients and more than 3 million members, delivering solutions that drive efficiency, enhance financial security, and provide peace of mind.
- Aptia has a presence in the UK, US, India. Aptia’s strength lies in the combination of smart technology and expert teams, ensuring that managing pensions, health, and insurance is more effective. By focusing on innovation, accessibility, and client success, Aptia helps businesses take care of their people, so they can focus on what they do best.
