Q: What advice can I give employers?

There are significant challenges for all employers, even those with good quality arrangements already in place, regarding the management of associated staffing, IT, payroll and accounting costs.

Andrew Towner, director of employee benefits at Cartlidge Morland, said assessments will need to be made regarding the eligibility of staff, the calculation of contributions, the suitability of existing pension schemes, if there is one, and the mechanics of meeting all of the legal duties.

In addition, he said it is extremely likely that there will be a requirement for advice regarding the communication to employees of auto-enrolment, its implications and opportunities.

There may also be an opportunity to review the total pay and benefits packages offered by an employer, according to Steve Wood, a senior consultant for Helm Godfrey.

For instance, he said automatic enrolment will be an expense for employers and they may seek to streamline costs elsewhere to help pay for it, so advisers may be able to provide guidance in this area.