Under current legislation, you can generally access your AVC fund at any time from age 55 (or age 50 if you joined before April 2006).
You do not have to retire to take your pension. You can choose the timing to fit in with your personal circumstances. You can also decide whether you want to provide a pension for your dependants after your death.
If you are 50 or over, or are retiring on ill health grounds, you can get free and impartial guidance on your options by booking an appointment with Pension Wise. Appointments are available by telephone and face-to-face and take about 45 minutes. Further details are available on the Pension Wise website.