SIPPs and SSAS firm Talbot and Muir has warned that a number of SSAS arrangements face “significant costs and delays” on transfers to a more suitable vehicle, such as a SIPP.

SSAS arrangements continue to be popular with advisers and their clients but at times it becomes necessary to transfer to a SIPP, the firm says. 

This may be due to the sale of the sponsoring employer or other personal reasons. 

Talbot and Muir says many who decide to transfer their SSAS benefits but wish to retain certain assets such as property are faced with unjustified charges and administrative delays.

While SSAS’s are not regulated by the FCA the firm said it “seems unfair” clients are not protected by the FCA’s fair treatment of clients Outcome 6, whereby consumers do not face unreasonable post-sale barriers imposed by firms to change product or provider.
 
David Bonneywell, director, Talbot and Muir, said: “We are seeing a marked increase in the enquiries received from IFA’s in respect of SSAS schemes that wish to move to a SIPP. 

“One reason for the contact is that these schemes are facing very high costs to transfer and they are looking to see if there are ways to minimise this. 

“Current administrators appear to be unhelpful with regards to the transfer and are putting restrictive internal red tape in place, in particular when a property is involved.
 
“A number of advisers are now recommending that the SSAS changes administrator and professional trustee, and then effects a transfer to a SIPP in a cost efficient and timely manner.”