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Guide: 5 essential steps to plan for a pension shortfall if you want to retire early

April 10, 2026
2 mins

Getting the most out of your retirement and reaching your goals requires careful planning.

But as we all know, life doesn’t always go to plan.

If you decide you want to retire sooner than originally planned – whether due to circumstances beyond your control, a health crisis, or a simple change of heart – a pension shortfall may require a rethink.

This guide shares five steps you can take to help you plan for a pension shortfall, build a strong financial foundation, and start enjoying your retirement sooner.

Download your copy here: 5 essential steps to plan for a pension shortfall if you want to retire early

If you want to retire early and would benefit from experienced advice and support to ensure you can generate a sustainable income for the duration of your retirement, please get in touch.

Please note: This guide is for general information only and does not constitute advice. The information is aimed at retail clients only.

A pension is a long-term investment not normally accessible until 55 (57 from April 2028). The fund value may fluctuate and can go down, which would have an impact on the level of pension benefits available.

The value of your investments (and any income from them) can go down as well as up and you may not get back the full amount you invested.

Hear what our clients say...

Testimonials

"I have been an existing client of Jon's since 2014, I am always pleased with how he simplifies what I consider to be quite complex matters. As a widow I trust him with all my finances and I really value our review meetings"
Mrs L
Leicester
"Aidan helped unwind some existing investments and set up new ISAs and an investment account for us. He was very clear and summarised the transactions wonderfully which enabled us to reclaim some tax back from HMRC. Thanks Aidan"
D&J.
Manchester
"I was referred to Jon by a trusted friend as I wished to review my pensions with a view to be able to retire as soon as possible. After Jon reviewed my existing pensions and put the information in a cash-flow model for me, I was delighted with the results. It gave me the confidence to retire early and I've been able to enjoy my retirement whilst I'm still fit and healthy."
John C
Bury Lancs
Your Questions, Answered

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What services does Sustainable WM offer?

Once we have assessed your financial health, we develop customized solutions tailored to your specific needs and goals. Our team of experts works closely with you to design a personalized financial plan that addresses your unique challenges and objectives. Whether you're looking to grow your wealth, plan for retirement, or manage debt, we create a plan that is tailored to your individual circumstances.

2. How do you customize financial advice for each client?

Once we have assessed your financial health, we develop customized solutions tailored to your specific needs and goals. Our team of experts works closely with you to design a personalized financial plan that addresses your unique challenges and objectives. Whether you're looking to grow your wealth, plan for retirement, or manage debt, we create a plan that is tailored to your individual circumstances.

3. What is your fee structure?

Once we have assessed your financial health, we develop customized solutions tailored to your specific needs and goals. Our team of experts works closely with you to design a personalized financial plan that addresses your unique challenges and objectives. Whether you're looking to grow your wealth, plan for retirement, or manage debt, we create a plan that is tailored to your individual circumstances.

4. How do you ensure the security of my financial information?

Once we have assessed your financial health, we develop customized solutions tailored to your specific needs and goals. Our team of experts works closely with you to design a personalized financial plan that addresses your unique challenges and objectives. Whether you're looking to grow your wealth, plan for retirement, or manage debt, we create a plan that is tailored to your individual circumstances.

5. What makes your firm different from other financial advisors?

Once we have assessed your financial health, we develop customized solutions tailored to your specific needs and goals. Our team of experts works closely with you to design a personalized financial plan that addresses your unique challenges and objectives. Whether you're looking to grow your wealth, plan for retirement, or manage debt, we create a plan that is tailored to your individual circumstances.