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Martin Lewis warning to workers on pension auto enrolment and why it is 'free money'

On February 3, 2026, Martin Lewis warned employees that opting out of auto enrolment forfeits employer pension contributions and tax relief on his Martin Lewis Money Show on ITV1.
Most workers aged 22 to State Pension age who earn over £10,000 are auto-enrolled, and employers must re-enrol eligible staff every three years.
Typical contribution splits include a five percent employee contribution and a three percent employer add, with the rules setting a minimum total contribution of 8% of qualifying earnings.
Because compounding matters, early saving substantially influences retirement outcomes, so Martin Lewis urged workers to check payslips and cautioned that pauses should be temporary and reviewed soon.
Rising living costs have prompted some workers to opt out, but Lewis said employer top-up and tax relief make pension saving efficient for long-term retirement wealth.

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