In addition, one in three admits they have never even spoken to their other half about how they’ll fund their post-work years.

The poll of more than 2,000 people by NOW: Pensions found that even as retirement draws near, many still avoid having the “pensions chat” or talking about money matters with their partner.

In fact, nearly a quarter of over 55s have never discussed retirement finances with their other half.

Despite the lack of communication around the subject, over a quarter are concerned their partner isn’t saving enough for their golden years.

People aged 35 – 44 are particularly worried as more than a third said they don’t think their partner is putting enough aside.

Morten Nilsson, chief executive of NOW: Pensions said: “Crossing your fingers and hoping for the best is no way to go about planning your retirement finances. As a couple, regularly reviewing and openly discussing your pension plans will help to avoid a nasty shock.”

The report also found that one in five women still expect their partner to fund their retirement, though nearly a fifth admit they don’t actually know whether their partner will be able to do this. This compares with the 2% of men who expect to live off their partner’s pension pot.

While nearly half of those surveyed intend to support themselves entirely in retirement, many women take career breaks to have children which can see their retirement savings diminishing in the process.

It therefore doesn’t come as a surprise that two in five men expect to either partially or entirely fund their partner in retirement, though nearly one in five are concerned that the money they’ve saved won’t be enough for two.

Michelle Cracknell, chief executive of The Pensions Advisory Service said: “This research draws attention to some of the issues that we hear about on our helpline in respect of partners and their pensions.

“Married women often tell us that they had opted out of all pensions because their husband made all the provision. This may not be the best financial planning and, of course, creates a problem should the marriage break down.

“Our tip for couples is for both “to have and to hold” pensions and talk to each other!”