What should I look for in a PODE? A practical guide
Quick answer
When choosing a PODE, look for fixed fees if predictability is important, reports geared up for no-experts, PAG-compliant work, experience with pension sharing on divorce and ideally a strong process for chasing pension providers. The right expert should make the pension side of your divorce clearer, not more confusing.
Introduction
So you've completed an assessment and it's confirmed: you need a PODE report. But how do you choose the right expert?
The reality is that not all PODEs work in the same way. Some are slower. Some charge extra for each calculation and many are set up to work exclusively with lawyers, rather than directly with the individual people going through divorce.
So here's a checklist to help you feel more confident as you consider your options.
1. Do they offer different report types?
If you're not in active court proceedings, not everyone needs the full works. Some cases are straightforward and just require a steer. Others require detailed equalisation and scenario testing because of the underlying complexity.
Ask: "Do you offer a range of report options depending on complexity?"
The best PODEs will offer flexible report levels to suit your situation, timeline, and budget, and will help you choose the right one.
2. Are fees fixed?
Some providers quote a low base fee and then add costs for every calculation or scenario. That's hard to budget for.
Ask: "Is your fee fixed, and does it include everything I'll need for my case?”
At The PODE our fees are fixed. No additional charges for extra calculations or scenario modelling, no surprises. A clear, all-in price gives you peace of mind and avoids unexpected costs as the case progresses.
3. Are they PAG compliant?
PODEs who follow the guidance of the Pensions Advisory Group (PAG) are working to the highest standards of impartiality, fairness, and technical robustness.
Ask: "Do you follow the PAG guidance in your reporting?"
PAG is the gold standard in pension sharing, but PODE’s are not compelled to follow it and not every PODE does.
4. Do they have a system for chasing providers?
Getting a report done quickly isn't just about how fast the expert can type. It's about how soon they get the right data and how hard they push for it from pension providers, who are notoriously tardy.
Ask: "What are your processes for chasing pension providers?"
Look for someone who has a clear, consistent system for chasing. Not just sending one email and waiting.
5. As a non-expert will I understand the report?
A report isn't helpful if no one understands it. You, your solicitor, the other party and the court (if applicable) all need to be able to follow the reasoning and outcomes.
PODE reports can be notoriously difficult to decipher.
We often have lawyers ask us to help interpret other PODE reports and many people end up having to pay another professional to help interpret the report.
Ask: "Are your reports written in plain English, with clear explanations of the calculations and options?"
Tip: Ask to see a sample report.
Look for providers who are committed to clarity in their reports and make active adjustment in order that non experts can understand them. Ultimately this will save you time, stress, and potentially the cost of extra professional interpretation.
6. Can you support me to implement my pension share?
Once you have your Pension Sharing Order and you have your pension credit from the provider you will need to implement that pension share in your own name. Which means deciding where it should go and how it should be best invested.
Some PODEs provide the report and step away.
Ask: "Do you offer support with implementation?"
Once your pension share is sorted, our sister company Guided Financial, can seamlessly help with your pension share, saving you time and hassle.
The bottom line
Choosing a PODE isn't just about ticking a legal box. It's about:
Keeping your case moving
Understanding your options
Avoiding unnecessary costs
Making sure the division of pensions is fair
Take your time. Ask the right questions. And remember. The right PODE will make this complex part of your divorce feel a whole lot clearer.
What to do next
Ready to find out whether The PODE is right for your situation? Start with our free assessment. In just a few minutes it will tell you what type of report you need and suggest your next steps.
