When a member leaves the Scheme
When a member chooses to leave the NHS Pension Scheme, they must complete part 1 of the Application to leave the NHS Pension Scheme (SD502) form. This form is available on the Leaving or taking a break from the Scheme webpage on the Member Hub.
Members do not need to complete this form if they're leaving the Scheme because their employment is ending.
You must then complete part 2 of the form. You may need to read the application form guidance (PDF: 115KB) when completing your section.
If you do not have access to Pensions Online (POL), you'll need to complete the leaver spreadsheet for all members and email it to us. You can find the spreadsheet and guidance notes on the Employer Forms webpage in the section for employers without access to POL or ESR.
Transferring out of the Scheme
If a member leaves the NHS Pension Scheme with more than 2 years' membership, they'll still be entitled to retirement benefits. They'll become a deferred member and can leave their benefits in the Scheme to claim when they retire.
Members can also choose to transfer their benefits to another registered pension scheme.
For more information, read the leaving early and transferring out guide (PDF: 1.4MB).
If the member is transferring out, you'll also need to complete the urgent request for pensionable pay (FA11) (Word: 220KB) form.
Refunds
Some members may be eligible for a refund of their pension contributions if they have less than 2 years' membership in total when they leave the scheme.
You can find more information in our Employer refund of pension contributions Factsheet (PDF: 202KB)