Pensions
Improvements in anti-HIV treatment mean that the life expectancy of people diagnosed HIV positive continues to increase. Recent research findings show that people diagnosed in their twenties can currently expect to live to an average age of 69, and that life expectancy will continue to increase as treatments are further improved.
If you are thinking of joining a company pension scheme or starting a personal pension plan, being HIV-positive will not be a problem. You should also be aware that if you were to become ill, or even die before retirement age, the terms of your pension could mean that you would still get benefits from it. These could include a medical retirement pension or, in the event of your death, a payment to your partner or next-of-kin.
On a practical note, if you have a pension or life assurance policy, make sure that you have nominated the person you want to receive benefits from it after your death. If you don’t do this, the company will give the money to your next-of-kin (whatever your will says).
We advise that you get specialist advice on this subject, preferably from a financial advisor with experience of working with HIV-positive clients.
Last updated April 2010