What is an SSAS?

SSAS — also known as a Small Self Administered Scheme (SSAS) — is a company pension scheme, the members of which are usually directors and key employees of the sponsoring employer.

Whilst subject to the same rules relating to contributions and benefits as a normal company pension scheme, SSAS schemes have considerably more flexibility and control over the investment policies and the scheme’s underlying assets. Contributions by individual members qualify for tax relief. Whereas contributions made by the employer may be deductible against profits, subject to certain conditions.

Other considerations are that SSAS schemes are typically established for a small number of members, and there can be limits on certain types of investments under HMRC rules.