Marvin OnumonuA third (31%) of UK adults have increased their workplace pension contributions above the minimum, research from Standard Life found.
One in 10 (10%) have made a one-off lump sum payment into their pension.
Analysis from Standard Life showed that even a small increase in contributions could make a big difference to retirement savings over time.
Someone starting work at 22 on a £25,000 salary who pays the standard 5% employee and 3% employer auto-enrolment contributions could have a pension pot of about £210,000 by age 68, after inflation.
Increasing the employee contribution by 2% from the start could boost the pot to £262,000, an uplift of £52,000.
An extra 1% could add £26,000.
The research assumed 3.5% salary growth each year, 5% investment growth and a 0.75% annual management charge.
Making regular one-off payments also made a difference.
If someone paid in £500 every five years between 25 and 65, they could be £5,000 better off by retirement.
Anyone able to pay in £5,000 every five years could see their pot rise to £264,000, which is £54,000 more than sticking to standard contributions.
Dean Butler, managing director for retail direct at Standard Life, part of Phoenix Group, said: “It’s great to see so many people taking charge of their financial future – and the best part is, you don’t need to make huge changes to see a big impact.
“Even small top-ups, whether monthly or occasional, can add up to tens of thousands of pounds over a working lifetime.
“Pensions Engagement Season is a great time to check your pension and consider whether you could afford to contribute a bit more.”
Butler added: “Our analysis shows that even a 2% increase in monthly contributions could potentially result in an extra £52,000 in retirement, while making one-off payments of £1,000 every five years could boost your pot by £11,000.
“Starting early and contributing consistently is key, and some employers will match additional contributions, giving your savings an even greater lift.
“If you’re able to save more, your future self is likely to thank you.”
