What a Master Trust changes
A Master Trust is an occupational pension structure used by multiple unrelated employers under a central trustee and governance framework. The employer still needs to make deliberate decisions about eligibility, contributions, payroll, employee communication and whether the arrangement meets workforce needs.
Employer due-diligence framework
Governance
Ask who the trustees and service providers are, how conflicts are managed, and how service performance is monitored.
Member outcomes
Review the default investment strategy, risk communication, retirement supports and member engagement.
Total cost
Compare employer costs and member-level policy, fund, transaction and advice charges on a consistent basis.
Administration
Test payroll integration, contribution reconciliation, joining, leaving and correction processes.
Transition
Document how existing benefits, records and member communications would be handled.
Service standards
Ask for response targets, escalation paths, reporting and responsibilities when errors occur.
What to prepare
Bring workforce numbers, salary ranges, current contribution rules, employment-contract commitments, payroll capabilities and any existing scheme documents to a review.
Download the employer checklist
Use the workplace pension route planner before requesting an advisor discussion.