What is a Small Self-Administered Pension Fund (SSAP)?

An SSAP is a flexible option for owner directors or executives, allowing direct investment in the open market, as opposed to the pension fund being run by external managers.

The "small" element of SSAPs refers to a Revenue stipulation regarding the number of members, which is fewer than 12 persons; in practice, most SSAPs are set up for one person only.

Why set up a Small Self-Administered Pension Fund (SSAP)?

The main advantages of an SSAP are:

1. Flexibility
You can choose your investments and asset mix.

2. Control
You can manage your own investments or select one or more managers to look after your funds.

3. Borrowing
An SSAP may borrow to finance investment e.g. property purchase.

How do I set up a Small Self-Administered Pension Fund (SSAP)?

We can set up the pension fund for you and seek approval from the Revenue Commissioners. We will also register the fund with the Pensions Board. 

There are also ongoing requirements associated with SSAPs:

Administrative
- We prepare and submit annual accounts to Revenue
- We also undertake periodic funding reviews to ensure the pension plan remains compliant with Revenue rules
- We advise on whether investments are permitted under Revenue rules

Investment
- We can provide investment advice and strategy planning where required.

Our dedicated SSAP team can guide you through these requirements. We are also approved pensioneer trustees for SSAPs, with expertise in pension administration and investment management. Contact us to discuss SSAP options.