Pensions - Articles - PPF looks to raise highest levy since 2015

 Falls in interest rates have driven up values placed on liabilities and exposure for the PPF but what will be unexpected by levy payers is the extent of the increase. At £620m it is £120m more than the PPF initially expected to raise this year. In reality the PPF says actual levies for the current levy year are likely to come in higher than initially expected at £575m. But overall, levy payers will still see a £45m increase in bills.

 Emily Sturgess, Senior Consultant at XPS Pensions said: “While the increase is understandable, levy payers need to make sure they don’t end up paying large increases unnecessarily. A number of schemes may have introduced hedging and there are actions they can take to ensure that the PPF reflects this in their levy. Those that have protected against interest rate falls should not pay any more than required.”

 There are a range of actions schemes and employers can take to ensure the PPF levy they pay is appropriate. With bill increases on the horizon, now is a good time to review all actions, such as:
 • providing an updated valuation to the PPF;
 • submitting specific scheme information rather than letting the PPF make assumptions (for example on sophisticated asset strategies); and
 • reviewing the availability of contingent assets, particularly if a funding review is currently underway.
  

 PPF Consultation