What happens if I’m suffering from ill health or I’m incapable to work?

If you’re suffering from serious ill health, you might be able to take your whole retirement pot as tax-free cash. You may also be able to take your money out early if you’re incapable of work due to illness.

If you have a medical condition that means you’ve been given a life expectancy of less than a year, you can take all of your retirement pot as tax-free cash. You’ll need to download the form Taking money out due to serious ill health (PDF).

Part one needs to be completed by you and part two will need to be completed by your doctor. Once we’ve received your completed form, we’ll contact you to let you know the next steps.

If you have a physical or mental impairment which means you’re unable to continue to work in any job now or in the future, you might be able to take your money out of Nest before age 55. It’s possible you won’t be able to take your whole pot as cash as you may have to use some of it to get a retirement income.

Your inability to work will need to be confirmed by your doctor. You’ll need to complete the form Taking money out early because you’re incapable of work (PDF). Part one needs to be completed by you and part two will need to be completed by your doctor. Once we’ve received your completed form, we’ll contact you to let you know about the next steps including retirement options available to you.

If you’re aged over 55, you’ll be able to take your money out of Nest in the usual way and the option to take your money out early due to incapacity won’t apply. Please see How can I take my money out of Nest at retirement? for more information.