Navigating retirement:

Understanding the Two-Pot retirement system

Key decisions for members approaching retirement

Starting on 1 September 2024, a new two-pot retirement fund system will be implemented. This will affect all members, but if you were in a provident fund and 55 or older on 1 March 2021, and have stayed in the same provident fund since then, you have special options.

Remember that your existing rights and future returns remain in place for your vested pot.

We understand that these changes can be confusing, so we're here to help you understand your choices and how they affect your retirement plans. Here’s how we can assist you:

Attend our webinar to better understand your options

Book your spot!

Date: 20 November 2024

Time: 10:00 - 11:30

Confirm my attendance

Over 55 Two-Pot Webinar

Date: 25 September 2024

Presentation slides

Upcoming webinars in 2025

Date: 29 January 2025

Time: 10:00 - 11:30

Registration will open in January 2025

Date: 26 February 2025

Time: 10:00 - 11:30

Registration will open in January 2025

Date: 26 March 2025

Time: 10:00 - 11:30

Registration will open in January 2025

Date: 23 April 2025

Time: 10:00 - 11:30

Registration will open in January 2025

Date: 28 May 2025

Time: 10:00 - 11:30

Registration will open in January 2025

Date: 25 June 2025

Time: 10:00 - 11:30

Registration will open in January 2025

Date: 30 July 2025

Time: 10:00 - 11:30

Registration will open in January 2025

Date: 27 August 2025

Time: 10:00 - 11:30

Registration will open in January 2025

Your Options:

Opting into the Two-Pot System

Option 1: Don’t Opt-In
(Stay the Same)

  • If you don't opt-in, nothing changes.
  • No separate savings and retirement pots.
  • Current rules for contributions and withdrawals remain.
  • You cannot access your funds while working.
  • No action is needed if you choose this option.

Option 2: Opt-In
(Two-Pot System Applies)

  • A portion of your vested funds (seed capital) will move to the savings pot.
  • Seed capital is 10% of your fund credit (max R30 000), calculated at 31 August 2024.
  • You can withdraw from your savings pot once every tax year (minimum R2,000). Taxes and fees apply, and withdrawals reduce the cash amount available on your retirement.

Ongoing Future Contributions if you opt-in to the Two-Pot System

All new retirement savings will be split into two pots from when you opt in:

Retirement Pot

Two-thirds (67%) of new savings go here. These funds must be used for retirement income, with no lump sum withdrawals allowed.

Savings Pot

One-third (33%) of new savings go here. You can withdraw from this pot once a year while still working, with a minimum withdrawal of
R2 000.

What do you need to do?

You will need to confirm if you want to opt in to the two-pot system. What should you do? It is extremely important to get advice to help guide you based on your personal needs.

Opt in form

YES, I want to opt in to the two-pot system

Please complete the two-pot system opt in form included herewith and send the completed form to: 2PotOver55Optin@alexforbes.com

Opt in form

NO, I don’t want to opt in to the two-pot system

No action required.

Everything stays the same.

If we receive your completed form on/before 29 August 2024, your seed capital will be 10% of your fund credit on 31 August 2024, subject to a maximum of R30 000. Seeding will be allocated on the date that you choose to opt-in, but is based on your fund credit at 31 August 2024.
If we received your completed form after 29 August 2024, your seed capital will still be 10% of your fund credit, subject to a maximum of R30 000, calculated as at 31 August 2024 and will be allocated to your savings pot on the last day of the month in which you opt into the two-pot system.

We know these choices can feel overwhelming, especially as you near retirement. We're here to help.

Understand the two-pot system:

Learn about the new savings and retirement pots, and how they work to your advantage.

Prepare for change:

Find out what you need to know about the upcoming retirement savings reforms which will be effective from 1 September 2024.

Learn all you need to know about the two-pot system and start planning ahead.

For a head start, explore the My Money Matters Toolkit for more information on the two-pot system and come prepared with questions.

Expert guidance:

Our panel of experts will provide valuable information on how to make the most of the two-pot system for your financial planning.

Interactive Q&A

Have your questions answered live and get clear guidance on how to navigate your retirement savings journey.