Are you leaving the LGPS, but not yet taking your pension?
If you are, it’s important to understand what options you have with the pension you've built in the LGPS.
Keep your pension in the LGPS
If you've already qualified for an LGPS pension by being in the scheme for at least two years, the first option you have is to leave your pension in the LGPS and become a deferred member.
You can leave your pension where it is and we’ll pay you a pension when you reach retirement age. That means you have the option to ask us to pay your pension at a reduced level at any time from the age of 55, or wait until you reach your state pension age when we’ll pay it at an unreduced level. You can choose to receive your pension at any point between the ages of 55 to 75.
If you get another job that is eligible for the LGPS we’ll join your deferred pension with your new record unless you ask us to keep them separate.
Other options
If you're leaving the scheme and looking at an option different to leaving your pension in the LGPS, you’ll find information in this section about:
- when you can apply for a refund of your pension contributions
- what will happen to your pension if you opt out of the scheme
- how to transfer pension, and how to identify a scam
If you're choosing to leave, we would encourage you to read about the benefits of being a member of our scheme before making your final decision.
If you'd like to talk to us about your situation please ring our helpline number: 01629 538900. You can also find more ways to get in touch on our contact us page. Please remember that although we can’t advise you what to do, we can give you information about the scheme and the options you have.