Isle of Man as your QROPS Jurisdiction
The Isle of Man (IOM) would be an optimal QROPS jurisdiction, as they offer tax efficiency, flexibility, strong investor principles are are denominated in a strong currency.
The Isle of Man is a low tax haven with the following features:
- no capital gains tax,
- no wealth tax,
- no stamp duty,
- no inheritance tax
- income tax max rate of 18% (with a tax-cap if this goes over certain thresholds).
Questions on Isle of Man as your QROPS Jurisdiction
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Is Income Drawdown Available?
- Yes.
- Subject to UK GAD rates, both USP and ASP.
- Income will be paid less 18% tax.
- First £2,120 (tax year 2009/10) per annum of income is paid gross (for non-IOM resident).
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What is the Maximum amount of lump sum available at normal retirement age?
- 25% Without penalty but increases to 30% after 5 full years of non-UK residency.
- Subject to trustee discretion.
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How is the pension payable calculated?
- Using either UK Government Actuary tables as per UK’s Unsecured/Alternatively Secured Pensions.
- Actuarially certified by scheme provider.
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What happens if the client dies before retirement (during the first 5 years of non-UK residency)?
- 100% return of fund to deceased’s estate/nomination with 0% tax charge or a spouse’s/dependant’s pension could be paid.
- Subject to tax at applicable rates.
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What happens if the client dies before retirement (after 5 years of non-UK residency)?
Post retirement pre 75
- Return of fund less 35% tax charge.
- Or a spouse’s/dependant’s pension could be paid.
Post retirement post 75
- Return of fund less tax charge up to 82%. Alternatively, in both cases,
- Or a spouse’s/dependant’s pension could be paid.
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What happens if the client dies after retirement (after 5 years of non-UK residency)?
Post retirement pre and post 75
- Return of fund less 7.5% tax charge.
- Or a spouse’s/dependant’s pension could be paid.
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What are the tax rates on taking a pension if the client is resident in the same jurisdiction as the QROPS?
- Single Personal allowance is £9,200 (tax year 2009/10).
- 10% band on income up to £10,500.
- Balance at 18%.
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What are the tax rates on taking a pension if the client is resident outside of the jurisdiction of the QROPS?
- Single personal allowance of £2,120 (tax year 2009/10).
- Balance is subject to 18%.
- May be subject to double taxation if country of residence taxes pension income.
