If you are approaching or are even currently in retirement, you may be faced with financial difficulties due to pensions not paying out what you had been told that they would. This is an unfortunate state of affairs, and it seems that everyone knows at least one person whose pension scheme has let them down.
The question is 'What to do about it?' One option is to look at some form of equity release. This basically means releasing a chunk of money from your house. It has its advantages and disadvantages, but for some people can be the only option if they want a comfortable life in their old age.
If you are thinking of doing this yourself, then you might want to look at an online equity release calculator. This will give you a rough idea of what you may expect to receive, and how it will affect you.
The next step would be to see an independent financial advisor. They would be able to tell you in greater detail if the scheme is best for you, and which companies might be currently offering the best deals.
Whilst for many people equity release is a last resort option, for others it is a vital lifeline to a more comfortable retirement. Even if you had never considered it before, it is worth keeping in mind, especially in these uncertain times.