Withdrawing funds from your AFP is a significant decision that can deeply impact your financial future. Are you wondering how to proceed with the withdrawal and where to invest those funds to maximize your benefits? In this detailed guide, we will explain step-by-step how to make the withdrawal and explore various investment options that will help you grow your money and ensure your long-term economic well-being.

What is an AFP and What Does It Do?

An Administradora de Fondos de Pensiones (AFP) is an entity responsible for managing workers' pension funds. Its primary function is to invest the contributions of affiliates to ensure them a pension upon retirement.

AFPs aim to maximize long-term fund returns, although gains can be modest and are subject to the fees they charge for their services.

Why is AFP Withdrawal Being Allowed?

In recent years, social and economic pressure has led the Congress of the Republic of Peru to allow the withdrawal of AFP funds. The recent COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated this need as many workers lost their jobs or saw their incomes reduced.

Recent news also highlights growing distrust in the AFP system due to low returns and high fees, prompting legislators to approve measures for affiliates to access their savings more flexibly.

Steps to Request AFP Withdrawal

1. Check Your AFP Funds: Visit the SBS portal to verify your AFP and the accumulated amount.

2. Review the Request Schedule:

Follow the schedule based on the last digit of your DNI:

• DNI ending in 1: May 20, 21, and June 18
• DNI ending in 2: May 22, 23, and June 19
• DNI ending in 3: May 24, 27, and June 20
• DNI ending in 4: May 28, 29, and June 21
• DNI ending in 5: May 30, 31, and June 24
• DNI ending in 6: June 3, 4, and 25
• DNI ending in 7: June 5, 6, and 26
• DNI ending in 8: June 10, 11, and 27
• DNI ending in 9: June 12, 13, and 28
• DNI ending in 0, letter, or other: June 14, 17, and July 1

3. Submit Your Request:

Enter the request portal: www.solicitaretiroafp.pe

Follow the steps indicated: 1) Enter your DNI number and the verification digit. 2) Enter your date of birth. 3) Complete the required information, such as the amount to withdraw and bank account details.

4. Validate and Track Your Request: Use the link: www.solicitaretiroafp.pe/validacion-registro to confirm your request. For tracking, visit: www.solicitaretiroafp.pe/seguimiento

By following these steps and paying attention to the schedule, you can effectively withdraw your AFP in 2024.

Should You Withdraw Your AFP in 2024 and How to Maximize Your Pension Funds?

Before deciding to withdraw your funds, consider your current financial situation and long-term goals. The main reasons for withdrawing AFP funds include paying off debts, investing in a new business, and saving or investing in the stock market.

What to Do with the Withdrawn Funds?

1. Pay Off Debts:

If you have outstanding debts with high-interest rates, using AFP funds to settle them can be very smart. Interest rates on debts, especially credit cards, can be extremely high, sometimes exceeding 60%. Eliminating these debts provides a more solid financial foundation and frees you from cumulative interest payments.

2. Invest in Your Future:

If you don't have significant debts, investing is an excellent way to grow your money. It's crucial to know your risk profile before choosing where to invest. You can use free online tools to assess your risk tolerance.

Investing in the stock market, especially in indices like the S&P 500, can be an attractive option. Historically, the S&P 500 has offered average annual returns of around 11%, significantly outperforming the typical returns of locally managed pension funds.

Why Investing in the Stock Market Can Be More Beneficial Than Keeping It in the AFP?

Investing in the stock market can offer several significant advantages compared to keeping your funds in an AFP:

Availability of money when you need it: Unlike funds in an AFP, you can access your money invested in the stock market at any time, without withdrawal restrictions.

Higher annual returns: Historically, the US stock market has offered higher returns compared to the average returns of AFPs.

No management fees: By investing on your own, you avoid the fees charged by AFPs, which can increase your net gains.

Total control over your investments: You can choose which companies or funds to invest in, tailoring your portfolio to your goals and risk tolerance.

Why Invest in the S&P 500?

The S&P 500 consists of the 500 largest companies in the United States and has proven to be one of the most profitable long-term investments. Compared to local pension funds, which are often required to invest a significant percentage in the local market, the S&P 500 offers greater diversification and growth potential.

How to Invest in the S&P 500 with Hapi

Hapi is an accessible and easy-to-use investment platform that allows you to invest directly in the S&P 500 without commissions. Here are the steps to get started:

1. Download the Hapi app: Available on both Android and iOS, Hapi lets you open an investment account in minutes.
2. Register and deposit funds: Follow the instructions to register your account and deposit the funds you want to invest.
3. Select your investment: Within the app, look for the assets that best fit your goals and select the amount you want to invest. If you want to invest in the S&P 500, you can buy ETFs like VOO, IVV, and SPY.
4. Maintain and review your investment: Once the investment is made, you can monitor your fund's performance directly from the app. It is advisable to maintain the investment long-term to maximize benefits.

Conclusion

Withdrawing your AFP funds can be a wise decision if you know how to manage that money wisely. Paying off debts and considering long-term investments like the S&P 500 can significantly improve your financial well-being. Use tools like Hapi to facilitate and enjoy your investment process. Start today and take control of your financial future!