Low earners and workplace pension saving – a qualitative study
This report covers qualitative research, with 119 low earners, exploring their attitudes, behaviours and experiences of Automatic Enrolment (AE) and workplace pensions.
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This research was conducted to provide insights on this heterogenous group of low earning employees and their relationship with workplace pensions, such as reasons to opt-in or opt-out to a workplace pension.
Research background
While the department strives to ensure appropriate coverage of AE and help those with lower earnings to build up pension savings, it wants to ensure feasible AE thresholds and manageable contribution rates for those on lower incomes. This research was conducted to provide insights on this heterogenous group of low earning employees and their relationship with workplace pensions, such as reasons to opt-in or opt-out to a workplace pension.
Contribution to the evidence base
This research contributes to a better understanding of low earners’ attitudes, behaviours, and experiences with workplace pensions, while considering the various groups within the lower earning category. The research outlines the individual, social and material factors that impact low earners and explores their reactions to potential changes to the AE framework.
Research value
These findings are a valuable addition to the department’s evidence base and support the ongoing policy development on Automatic Enrolment. This research complements insights from other research, for example on Engaging with Pensions at Timely Moments or the employer perspective on workplace pensions.