# What triggers the Money Purchase Annual Allowance?

> Quick answer · Last updated 4 July 2026

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## In short

Taking flexible taxable income from a defined contribution pension — including flexi-access drawdown withdrawals and taxable UFPLS — reduces your annual allowance for future pension contributions to £10,000.

Taking only tax-free cash does not usually trigger MPAA.

Capped drawdown holders who remain within old caps may not trigger MPAA — check with your scheme.

See MPAA answer and drawdown income guide.

## Related

- [MPAA explained](https://moneyguide.org.uk/answers/what-is-the-money-purchase-annual-allowance/)
- [Drawdown income guide](https://moneyguide.org.uk/pensions/pension-drawdown-income-guide/)

## Primary source

gov.uk/hmrc-internal-manuals/pensions-tax-manual/ptm057000

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Independent UK money guidance from [Money Guide](https://moneyguide.org.uk). Information only — not regulated financial advice.