We're expecting an increase in estimate requests over the next few months
Because of this, we're reviewing our redundancy estimate processes to make it easier for you.
If you need a redundancy estimate for a member, you can request one from us. Only you can do this. Members cannot request estimates themselves.
When you send us the request, you need to include some information so we can work out the benefit options for the member. This information includes some calculations. You can use our Redundancy calculator (Excel: 290KB) to help with these.
We do not charge for estimates.
Sending a request for an estimate
You should request an estimate only if the member’s planned retirement date is within the next 12 months.
Once we receive a request, we’ll look at it as soon as possible.
Make sure you include all the information we ask for and that it’s correct. If we need to contact you for more information, this could delay the estimate.
Illustrations for members affected by the Public Sector Pensions Remedy (McCloud)
The NHS Pensions Remedy Benefits Illustrator has been expanded to allow members affected by the Public Service Pensions (McCloud) Remedy who are at or over their normal minimum pension age and facing redundancy to model their own pension benefits directly and consider their options regarding retirement on redundancy.
All you need to do is direct a member to the illustrator and provide them with their redundancy severance payment details.
Members will be able to see a clear illustration of their pension options — comparing legacy scheme benefits against 2015 scheme benefits for the remedy period — along with an illustration of financial implications of taking their pension immediately alongside their redundancy payment. This gives members a clear picture of their position without requiring a bespoke estimate.
Members would still need to apply for a more accurate estimate if they are interested in applying for their benefits, having used the illustrator, but this new capability will significantly ease the workload on employing authorities.
If you need estimates for more than 10 members
You need to complete the Bulk redundancy spreadsheet (Excel: 395KB).
You should include information for all members on a single sheet. Do not send us separate sheets for each member.
Once you've completed this, send it to us at [email protected].
If you need estimates for fewer than 10 members
You need to complete the relevant AW295 estimate request form. Send us a separate form for each member.
For members who have 2015 Scheme membership only, you should complete:
For members who also have 1995/2008 Scheme membership, you should complete:
Request for an estimate of benefits (AW295) (PDF:203KB)
You can also find these on our Employer forms page.
If you're not able to use the calculator for the member, you can request an estimate from us by completing and submitting the AW295 form. You can do this either through Pensions Online or by forwarding a scanned copy to [email protected].
Receiving the estimate
Once we’ve calculated the pension estimate, we’ll email it to you.
You should then give this to the member for them to review.
What the estimate includes
Our estimate will show:
- the unreduced pension and pension commencement lump sum
- the reduced pension and pension commencement lump sum, as the pension is being paid early
- any pension amounts after commutation, where the member exchanges some of their pension for a lump sum
- the capitalised cost of paying the unreduced pension early
- If there is a shortfall after any redundancy payment has been used to cover the capitalised cost