Rule 106: Restriction on assignability etc.
444.Rule 106 makes provision in relation to the inalienability of pension benefits.
445.Section 91 of the 1995 Act provides generally for the inalienability of occupational pensions, except to the extent permitted by law. Any pension rights and benefits due under the pension scheme shall not be assignable or chargeable with debts or other liabilities. There are some exceptions to inalienability set out at section 91(5). These exceptions are not mandatory on pension schemes. Rule 106 disapplies the exceptions at paragraphs (a) assignment, (b) surrender and (c) commutation. Assignment, surrender and commutations are therefore not permitted in respect of scheme benefits, other than where the scheme rules specifically permit.