General FAQs

Q: Do I have to be a member of Unite to be able to join the scheme ?
A: No! – if your company has the PIPS scheme everyone is welcome to join.

Q: Does the employer have to be a member of the BPIF ?
A: No! – all companies in the printing industry and allied trades are welcome.

Q: Can I join as a self-employed person in the industry ?
A: Please contact our advisers who can explain how you can become an individual member of the scheme.

Q: Do I own my pension contract with PIPS ?
A: Yes you will be the legal owner of your pension account.

Q: Will I control how my money is invested ?
A: Yes you will choose your investments and can change them if you wish. Please note that your investments can go down as well as up.

Q: What if I have queries with any aspect of PIPS?
A: You can get free guidance from the advisers or contact the PIPS secretary.

Q: Will I get help to choose the best annuity (pension) when I retire ?
A: Yes providing you contact the PIPS advisers in good time before retirement.

Q: Is anybody looking after PIPS and ensuring problems are addressed ?
A: The PIPS Management Committee (BPIF/Unite) will oversee the scheme in your best interests.

Q: Will my charges be low ?
A: The Management Committee and advisers will always strive to offer the best value for money pension account possible. 

Q: Can PIPS accept transfers in from other pension schemes ?
A: Normally yes – you would need to consult the PIPS advisers.

Q: How do I know if my contributions are on target to provide for my retirement ?
A: The combined pension forecast PIPS provides should help together with guidance from our advisers.  

Q: How much do I need to contribute to ensure a comfortable retirement ?
A: This depends upon many factors including how long and how much you contribute into the scheme as well as when you decide to draw benefit - we suggest you contact our advisers to discuss your PIPS account. 

Q: Will I ever see anyone from PIPS ?
A: The advisers request a visit to every member company each year and you can request a personal meeting - ask your employer for details.   

Q: Is there a regular newsletter for me to keep in touch ? 
A: There is an annual PIPS newsletter printed each year and sent out to employers. The latest 2008 newsletter is available online from the secretary.