How can I check how much money I have in my pension?

Knowing how much money you have in your pension fund is crucial, whether you’re planning for retirement or simply want to monitor your financial future. You’re not the only person in South Africa who wants to know how to check the balance of your pension. When it comes to monitoring their retirement funds, many South Africans are not sure where to begin.

We’ll explain the simplest methods for checking the amount of your pension fund in this piece, along with the information you’ll need and the significance of keeping informed. Let’s get started.

Why You Should Check Your Pension Balance Regularly

Keeping track of your pension savings isn’t just for those nearing retirement age. Whether you’re in your 20s or 50s, knowing how much you’ve saved can help you:

  • Plan better for retirement

  • Adjust your contributions if needed

  • Understand your fund’s performance

  • Make informed financial decisions

Types of Pension Funds in South Africa

Before checking your balance, it helps to know what kind of pension fund you have. The main types include:

  • Company Pension Funds (through your employer)

  • Provident Funds

  • Retirement Annuities (RA)

  • Government Employee Pension Fund (GEPF)

Each fund type may have a different method for checking balances.

1. How to Check Your Company Pension or Provident Fund Balance

If your pension fund is provided by your employer, the easiest way to check your balance is to:

Contact Your HR Department

Most HR departments can provide a statement or direct you to the right pension fund administrator.

Use Your Fund Administrator’s Online Portal

Common administrators in South Africa include:

  • Sanlam

  • Old Mutual

  • Alexander Forbes

  • Momentum

Visit the administrator’s website and register or log in to your account. You’ll typically need your ID number and/or member number.

2. How to Check Your Retirement Annuity Balance

If you’ve taken out a Retirement Annuity (RA), you can:

Log in to Your RA Provider’s Website

RA providers like Allan Gray, Liberty, or Discovery allow online access. You’ll be able to see your current value, contributions, and even project your retirement income.

Request a Statement

You can also call or email your provider and ask for a recent statement of your retirement annuity.

3. How to Check Your Government Employee Pension Fund (GEPF) Balance

If you work in the public sector, you’re likely a member of the GEPF. Here’s how to check your balance:

Visit the GEPF Website: www.gepf.gov.za

You can register on the GEPF Member Self-Service Portal. It allows you to view your balance, update personal details, and download benefit statements.

Use the GEPF Mobile App

GEPF also offers a mobile app for convenience.

What If You Don’t Know Who Your Pension Fund Provider Is?

If you’ve worked for multiple companies or lost track of a fund:

Use the FSCA’s Online Search Tool

The Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA) allows you to search for unclaimed benefits or pension funds. Visit: www.fsca.co.za

Final Tips for Managing Your Pension in South Africa

  • Check your balance at least once a year

  • Update your contact details with your fund

  • Name and update your beneficiaries

  • Speak to a financial advisor if you’re unsure about how much you should be saving