Your comprehensive roadmap to a secure and fulfilling retirement. 19 chapters covering everything from pensions to tax planning to lifestyle.
We have delivered far more than 10,000 consultations.
Planning for retirement shouldn’t feel like a puzzle.
Whether you’re decades away from finishing work or counting down the final few years, having a clear plan makes all the difference. That’s why we created this complete Retirement Playbook. A practical guide to help you make confident, informed decisions about your future.
Inside, you’ll find plain-English explanations of how pensions work in Ireland, what tax reliefs are available, and how to make sure your lifestyle goals remain within reach. Each chapter is written to simplify complex choices and give you control over what happens next.
You can read each section at your own pace, explore real-world examples, and discover how professional financial advice can turn uncertainty into peace of mind.
5 Good Reasons to Start a Pension Today!
01
Take Control of Your Future
A private pension gives you independence and financial security in retirement, without having to depend solely on the State pension.
02
Enjoy Significant Tax Relief
Contributions are eligible for tax relief at 20% or 40% depending on your income, making it the most tax-efficient way to save.
03
Start Small, Grow Big
The earlier you start, the less you need to contribute over time thanks to compound growth.
04
Maintain Your Lifestyle
A pension helps you replace your income after retirement, so you can continue to enjoy the things you love.
05
Peace of Mind
Knowing you’re preparing for retirement brings confidence and reduces financial stress later in life.
Explore the Chapters
Below you’ll find every section of Rockwell’s Retirement Playbook. Short, easy-to-read chapters grouped into five themes. Click through to explore each topic in detail.
Section 1
Understanding Your Options
Section 2
Planning Your Retirement
Section 3
Accessing Your Pension
Section 4
Optimising & Protecting
Section 5
Living In Retirement
Key Statistics
“1 in 5 Irish adults have made NO financial arrangements for retirement”
“Only 39% are confident their pension will provide good standard of living when they retire”
“Over 50% of adults intend to use savings for retirement, suggesting many aren’t making the most of pension tax relief.”
“66% have never spoken to financial advisor about retirement”
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Frequently Asked Questions
When should I start planning for retirement?
Ideally, as soon as possible. The earlier you start, the more time your money has to grow through compounding and tax relief. But even if you’re starting later, it’s still possible to make meaningful progress with the right plan.
How much do I need to retire in Ireland?
There’s no one number. It depends on your lifestyle, income, and expected expenses. Many people aim to replace around two-thirds of their working income, but a personalised review gives the clearest picture.
What's the difference between ARF and annuity?
An ARF lets you keep your pension invested and draw from it flexibly, while an annuity guarantees a fixed income for life. Each has pros and cons, some people use a mix of both.
Do I need a financial advisor?
Yes. Pensions and tax rules are complex, and an advisor can help you avoid mistakes, claim full reliefs, and tailor your plan to your circumstances.
How is the State Pension calculated?
It’s based on your PRSI record under the Total Contributions Approach. Around 40 years of contributions are usually needed for the full rate, but partial pensions are available too.
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