Retirement Planning with AJWM

Planning for a Fulfilling Life After Work

Planning for your life after your working career is more crucial than ever. It’s a common misconception that the State Pension will suffice, however those will be enough to sustain a very basic lifestyle. A suitable pension is key to securing the lifestyle you want. Starting your retirement planning early will allow you more time to invest in your growth, adapt to changes and secure your future you wish to live in.

A Wide Range of Retirement Products

Personal Pension

Ideal if you are self-employed or your employer doesn’t offer an occupational pension scheme. Contributions to a personal pension attract the appropriate tax relief, which you can claim up to age 75.

Personal Retirement Savings Account (PRSA)

A personally owned pension product, that available regardless of your employment status, and offers contribution flexibility.

Your employer can contribute as well as yourself, it’s portable between employers, and your personal contributions attract the appropriate tax relief you can claim up to age 75 (if required).

Personal Retirement Bond

After leaving a pensionable service, this product accepts a ‘one off’ transfer of ‘paid up’ pension funds. This allows the individual to gain control over risk and drawdown of their ex company pension.

Occupational Pension Scheme

Typically found in the private sector, these funded schemes are set up by companies and usually involve contributions from both the employee and the employer.

Executive Pension

Specifically designed for company directors and business owners, offering tailored retirement planning solutions.

Additional Voluntary Contributions (AVCs)

Optional pension contributions, that one can make to an existing pension scheme or PRSA, in order to build up an additional retirement funds, in a tax-efficient manner.

Why Choose Us as Your Retirement Planner?

At Andrew Johnston Wealth Management, we specialize in guiding you through your retirement journey. Our goal is to simplify your financial planning process so you can focus on what matters most to you.

Tailored Plans Just for You: Retirement isn’t one-size-fits-all. We create plans that fit your individual situation and goals.
Clear and Honest Guidance: We ensure you're informed every step of the way, with open communication about your options.
A Reliable, Trusted Partnership: We remove the stress and uncertainty so you can feel confident about your financial security.

Long Lasting Relationships

Andrew Johnston of AJWM Ltd has looked after our DPF Ltd staff scheme since 2016 and has given an excellent service to date. The service mode that Andrew Johnston implements, takes most of the workload and hassle away from the day-to-day workings within DPF. Andrew regularly conducts onsite visits - dealing with new members, leaving members and ongoing queries relating to the smooth running of the Group Pension. We in DPF, would have no problem endorsing the services provided by AJWM ltd to both similar sized companies and/or individuals.

Seamus Lancaster, MD
DPF Engineering7 years client

Andrew has been my advisor for several years now. I had several decent pensions with previous employers (AIB Bank and Google, for example) and wanted to see how best to manage these and simplify things. Andrew is very helpful, efficient and honest and I would recommend him to provide straightforward and pragmatic advice.

Linda Talbot, Program Manager
Icon Plc5 years client

I have engaged Andrew Johnston and Wealth Management on multiple occasions over the years. Recently, I sought Andrew's advice on pension options for my company. Despite missing out on a profitable director's pension, Andrew reassured me that a new and equally beneficial pension would become available within a year or two. Inspired by his knowledge and confidence, I patiently waited and eventually secured a different but noteworthy Director's pension through Andrew. I highly recommend Andrew Johnston of Wealth Management for director's pension advice.

Eavan Diamond, Architect
Diamond Architects10 years client

I‘ve dealt with Andrew Johnston Wealth Management in Wicklow Town recently and found his expertise and advice extremely helpful in relation to a New Personal Pension which he helped set up for me. His frank and friendly manner made him very approachable and his responses to any queries were provided quickly. I strongly recommend him for any Pensions and Investment related services that anyone might need.

Richard Simmons, Photographer2 years client

Andrew has been helping my clients from TaxAssist Accountants Wicklow with their pensions for the last number of years.
Andrew is the first person I ring!

Eamonn Flynn, Owner
TaxAssist Wicklow5 years client

FAQs About Pensions & Retirement

What is retirement planning?

Retirement planning involves setting goals for your life after your working career and outlining a strategy to achieve those goals. It helps you determine how much money you’ll need and the optimal ways to ensure a steady income during your retirement years.

How can I start planning my retirement?

You can start by assessing your current financial situation and understanding your goals. It’s beneficial to consult with financial advisors who can help you create a comprehensive plan tailored to your unique needs.

What should I consider for retirement income?

You should consider your expected expenses, potential income sources like pensions or Social Security, and how much you plan to withdraw from your savings. Creating a budget for your retirement lifestyle is crucial to ensure sustainability.

When should I start retirement planning?

It’s best to start planning as soon as possible. The earlier you begin, the more time your savings have to grow. Even small contributions can make a big difference over time.

Can I change my retirement plan?

Changing your plans is perfectly normal. Life circumstances evolve, and adjusting your retirement strategy is important. Regular reviews of your plan will help keep it aligned with your current objectives.

Is the state pension in Ireland enough?

The short answer – no. State pension in Ireland is up to €277 per week (in 2025). While it provides a foundation, State Pension is designed mainly to keep you out of poverty.

What is a Pension Annuity?

A Pension Annuity provides you with a guaranteed, regular income for the rest of your life, once you retire. Typically, you can take up to 25% of your pension pot as a tax-free lump sum before purchasing the annuity. Any subsequent income payments from the annuity will be taxed as earnings. It offers the security of a lifelong, predictable income stream.

Am I free to switch brokers at any time?

Generally, yes. You have the right to choose and switch financial brokers. But we believe our personal service and commitment to your long-term best interest will make you stay with us.

Are there risks involved?

Retirement planning involves financial products that may be affected by a range of risks. These can include:

Investment risk – The value of pension funds or investments may go down as well as up.
Inflation risk – The cost of living may rise faster than the value of your savings or pension income.
Longevity risk – You may live longer than expected, and your funds may need to last longer.
Market or interest rate changes – Fluctuations in markets or rates can impact returns.

Every plan we create is tailored to your circumstances, goals, and risk tolerance, and we’ll discuss all relevant risks with you before making any recommendations.

Take Control of Your Pensions Today

Don’t leave your future to chance, simply arrange a free initial consultation to find out how to secure your future today.